“This is distressing news for the struggling families of the Southern Tier Region. The natural gas industry would have energized our economy the same way that it has for the 35 other states that are benefiting from regulated hydrofracking. Our school districts and municipalities desperately needed the tax revenue that would have been generated by the natural gas industry. Land owners, farmers, and job-seekers desperately trying to provide for their families count this is a disappointing blow.”

“As ranking Minority member of the Committee on Energy, I understand the importance of developing low-cost, reliable energy sources for our families, small businesses, job creators and manufacturers. Today, Gov. Cuomo said ‘no’ to a plan that would have created jobs and fostered energy independence. What is even more disheartening is that he failed to outline an alternative agenda to achieve these important goals.”

“There is much more to Upstate New York than just those communities surrounding the thruway corridor. Maybe it's time the governor visited the Southern Tier to meet with area leaders and listen to their concerns and tell them what his plan is now to help improve the Southern Tier economy. This decision is certainly no way to start up NY like he has professed he wants to do.”