Enacted in late 2013, SB 4 requires state agencies to complete three main tasks in creating a comprehensive regulatory program for oil and gas well stimulation treatments: (1) adopt new temporary and permanent regulations, (2) prepare an EIR on well stimulation as conducted in California, and (3) conduct an independent scientific study. DOGGR released the Draft EIR required under task 2 on January 14, 2015. You can find that Draft EIR here.

The Draft EIR analyzes potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing and other well stimulation treatments, though not all oil and gas recovery operations throughout the state of California. The public is invited to review and submit written comment on the Draft EIR from January 14, 2015, till March 16, 2015. During the comment period, interested parties can also attend six public comment meetings throughout the state to provide verbal and written comments on the Draft EIR. SB 4 requires the Department of Conservation and DOGGR to certify a Final EIR by July 1, 2015. A more detailed discussion of SB 4 is available on our blog.