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Fracking Liability Bill Given Another Day For Work

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland Attorney General's office is weighing in on a bill to hold fracking companies more responsible for personal injury and property damage.

Sen. George Edwards, a Republican who represents western Maryland, on Wednesday asked for a postponement on the legislation so he could submit a letter from the Attorney General's office. He said the advisement of the office would show that the proposed legislation to label the natural gas drilling method as "ultrahazardous and abnormally dangerous" was another way of saying the drilling companies are strictly liable for injuries.

The bill's lead sponsor, Sen. Robert Zirkin, said the bill is not about whether or not there should be fracking in Maryland, but ensures the industry is held responsible for any damage to residents or their property.

(Copyright 2015 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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