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Bill

S 2706

Prohibits the use of drilling fluids, brine and flowback water from gas or oil wells, pools, or fields on any highway

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Addabbo and 11 co-sponsors

S 2706 - Prohibits the Use of Drilling Fluids and Wastewater on Highways OverviewBill Number: S 2706 Title: Prohibits the use of drilling fluids, brine and flowback water from gas

SUBSTITUTED BY A4725B
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Bill Summary · S 2706

S 2706 - Prohibits the Use of Drilling Fluids and Wastewater on Highways

Overview

Bill Number: S 2706
Title: Prohibits the use of drilling fluids, brine and flowback water from gas or oil wells, pools, or fields on any highway
Status: SUBSTITUTED BY A4725B
Introduced: September 04, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to protect public health and the environment by prohibiting the use of potentially hazardous drilling fluids, brine, and flowback water from oil and gas operations on highways and other roadways. The intent is to prevent the potential contamination of soil, groundwater, and surface water that could result from the application or spillage of these materials on roads.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibits the use, application, or placement of any drilling fluids, brine, or flowback water from gas or oil wells, pools, or fields on any highway, road, street, or other public thoroughfare
  • Defines "drilling fluids, brine, and flowback water" as any liquids used in or resulting from the drilling, development, production, or storage of oil or natural gas
  • Establishes civil penalties for violations, with fines ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 per violation
  • Authorizes the state environmental agency to promulgate rules and regulations to implement and enforce the prohibition

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Oil and gas companies that previously used or disposed of drilling fluids and wastewater on roads would be prohibited from this practice
  • State and local transportation agencies would be responsible for enforcing the prohibition and monitoring for any violations
  • The general public and surrounding communities could benefit from reduced environmental contamination and potential health risks associated with exposure to these materials

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

This bill has been substituted by A4725B, which is currently under consideration in the state legislature. If passed, the new law would take effect 90 days after the date of enactment. The state environmental agency would then have 120 days to develop the necessary rules and regulations to implement and enforce the prohibition on the use of drilling fluids and wastewater on highways and roads.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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