SUPCO Says State Regulations Supersede Local Anti-Fracking Measures

The Ohio Supreme Court says state oil and gas drilling regulations supersede local zoning laws. In today's 4-3 decision, the court says the home rule clause of Ohio's constitution does not allow a municipality to impede or obstruct drilling activities permitted by the state. The decision involves a lawsuit brought by the city of Munroe Falls against Beck Energy. Beck got a state permit in 2011 to drill a traditional well on private property. The city sued, saying the company illegally sidestepped local ordinances. The lawsuit has been closely monitored for its potential impact on local efforts to block fracking.