Fracking Opponents Rally As Maryland Prepares Regulations

HAGERSTOWN, Md. (AP) — Opponents of the natural gas drilling technique called hydraulic fracturing are holding events across the state as Maryland environmental regulators prepare to publish proposed rules for issuing permits starting in October.

The events include a rally Monday afternoon at the Baltimore office of Democratic state Sen. Joan Conway, who chairs the Senate's environmental committee. The Don't Frack Maryland Coalition is asking Conway to support a permanent ban on fracking.

The group is urging the Baltimore City Council to pass a resolution Monday night requesting a ban on fracking in Maryland.

In far western Maryland, where most of the gas reserves lie, state Delegate David Faser-Hidalgo is speaking on the potential effects of fracking on Deep Creek Lake tourism.

Activists plan other events Tuesday in Frederick, Laurel and Silver Spring.

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