11-02-2025
Bill to speed up plugging of abandoned oil, gas wells in Pennsylvania
(WTAJ) — A bipartisan effort is underway to address thousands of abandoned oil and gas wells across Pennsylvania and the nation.
U.S. Reps. Glenn 'GT' Thompson (R-PA) and Chris Deluzio (D-PA) introduced the Orphan Well Grant Flexibility Act, which aims to remove federal restrictions and speed up well-plugging efforts.
Pennsylvania has more than 27,000 documented orphaned wells, many of which pose environmental risks such as water contamination and methane emissions, according to the state Department of Environmental Protection. The bill would ease regulatory burdens on state agencies, allowing them to use federal funds more efficiently.
Supporters say the legislation will build on the $4.7 billion allocated under the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for orphaned well cleanup. Western Pennsylvania, one of the hardest-hit regions, has hundreds of these wells, including 25 in Beaver County and 219 in Allegheny County.
The bill has backing from several energy and environmental groups, including the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission, the Independent Petroleum Association of America, and The Nature Conservancy.
Lawmakers are pushing for swift passage, arguing that the bill will cut red tape, accelerate cleanup efforts, and reduce environmental hazards.
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