Weld DA speaks out against new oil, gas regulations

Weld District Attorney Ken Buck said in a statement Monday that new energy production rules being considered will have a negative impact on local government budgets.

New energy production rules are being considered by the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission and include tougher regulations on oil and gas production. Buck said in the release that the regulations are likely to deter companies from exploring new well sites in Colorado. Counties, including Weld, receive well-site revenues through the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.

"Governments across Colorado are struggling to contain costs," Buck said in the statement. "These new energy production rules will drive up costs for county government as natural gas supplies are reduced."

In 2006, funds received from an Energy Impact Grant were used to build the Weld County Juvenile Assessment Center.

Buck said it is hoped that funds from energy revenue will be used this year for Weld roads and a new social services building.

The commission will hold hearings in Grand Junction today . The agency will make a final decision by Aug. 12.

The commission was directed by the legislature to draft rules striking a balance between continued production and regulations that protect environment and wildlife. The oil and gas industry has criticized the proposed rules, saying they are overly restrictive.