Statement from Energy Institute President & CEO Karen Harbert on Court Decision Blocking Fracking Rule

Press Release
June 22, 2016

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Karen Harbert, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber’s Institute for 21st Century Energy, today issued the following statement regarding a federal district court ruling striking down the Department of Interior’s proposed regulations on hydraulic fracturing:

“The courts have once again stepped in to halt an Obama administration rule that would threaten jobs and energy security. It has become clear that this administration's legacy will be one of regulatory over-reach.

“The Bureau of Land Management's fracking rule is yet another example of a federal agency over stepping it's legal authority, in this case on an issue that has been well regulated by the states, and in an area that the agency does not have the expertise to regulate.

“The Obama-appointed judge was correct in his clear and firm ruling and agreed with the argument that the Chamber has been making on this issue from the beginning. The government cannot simply regulate whatever it wants, whenever it wants.”

The mission of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Institute for 21st Century Energy is to unify policymakers, regulators, business leaders, and the American public behind a common sense energy strategy to help keep America secure, prosperous, and clean. Through policy development, education, and advocacy, the Institute is building support for meaningful action at the local, state, national, and international levels.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.