Ohio passes fracking law

COLUMBUS, Ohio, June 12 (UPI) -- Ohio has adopted legislation that requires energy companies to disclose to healthcare providers the components of fluids used in natural gas operations.

Ohio Gov. John Kasich signed a package of measures that include regulations on the hydraulic fracturing of shale natural gas deposits in the state.

The state government said a comprehensive review of Ohio's energy policy was needed in response to the natural gas boom in the Marcellus and Utica plays.

The rules add safeguards to well construction and calls on energy companies to coordinate with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

"ODNR must be notified prior to a well being cemented to protect ground water and that cementing records must be submitted for agency analysis," the government said.

The legislation adds that "all chemical information, including trade secret formulas" of the fluid used during the hydraulic fracturing process "must be" shared with healthcare providers and patients.

The measure also "encourages" energy companies to employ wastewater treatment and recycling technologies to conserve water resources.

Before Kasich signed the measure, an official at the Environmental Defense Fund said the legislation fell short of what's needed for responsible oil and natural gas production in Ohio.

The measure goes into effect Aug. 1.