In 1953, presented with evidence of smoking’s harm, Big Tobacco launched a campaign that tried to deny the science. Their decades-long effort eventually cost the industry billions for deceiving the public about the dangers of smoking.

Fracking in Pennsylvania is facing a similar moment. Increasing numbers of studies point to the negative impacts of fracking on health. The most recent Compendium reveals that 2,303 published peer-reviewed papers show multiple problems, including childhood cancers, premature death, respiratory issues, and endocrine disruption. There is “no evidence,” the Compendium concludes, “that fracking can be practiced in a manner that does not threaten human health directly . . . .”

The recent University of Pittsburgh study (which Senator Gene Yaw mentions in his latest op-ed) adds to this evidence by showing increased incidence of lymphoma in children living near oil and gas operations. Another study, conducted in 2022 by the Yale School of Public Health, found that Pennsylvania children living near fracking wells are twice as likely to develop juvenile leukemia.

The industry is now tapping its celebrity shills to deny the science.

Senator Yaw is perfect for the job. He was recently given the Shale Gas Advocate Award by the Marcellus Gas Coalition for his “exceptional contributions in advocating for . . . Pennsylvania’s natural gas resources.” A look at his top twenty 2022 corporate campaign contributors reveals that the majority are from the oil and gas industry.

Who is Senator Yaw representing? His constituency? Or the gas industry.

The answer is clear.

KAREN ELIAS

Lock Haven

Submitted by Virtual Newsroom