Bill > S76

This bill, the Domestic Energy Jobs Act, aims to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for oil and gas exploration and development in North Carolina, including processes for horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing (often called "fracking"), while also making changes to energy policy and hospital emergency fuel requirements. Key provisions include exempting certain commissions from preparing fiscal notes for rules related to oil and gas regulation, delaying the issuance of permits for these activities until a modern regulatory program is developed and adopted, and mandating studies on a coordinated permitting process, severance taxes, and landmen registration. The bill also modifies the composition and appointment process for the Mining and Energy Commission, adjusts limitations on oil and gas production allowables, clarifies bonding requirements for drilling operations, and establishes a framework for allocating revenues from offshore energy production into an emergency fund and other state accounts. Furthermore, it encourages regional cooperation on offshore energy policy, restructures the Energy Policy Council within the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and allows hospitals to use compressed natural gas (CNG) as an emergency fuel source under specific conditions.