ATLANTA (June 17, 2014) | Sen. Ross Tolleson (R- Perry) attended the National Conference of State Legislature’s (NCSL) summer North Dakota Energy Tour last week in Bismarck, N.D. Legislators from across the country were invited to tour modern coal mines and power plants to see how the industry is addressing environmental issues and using advanced technologies to produce power with lignite coal more cleanly.
“This tour provided legislative leader’s a firsthand glimpse into how North Dakota is dealing with the economic and infrastructure impacts of a surge in oil production and development due to technologies such as hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling,” said Sen. Tolleson. “By witnessing North Dakota’s successes and discussing these matters with experts and legislators from around the country, we are better equipped to determine how this sector could bring about positive change in Georgia.”
In addition to the coal mine and power plant, Sen. Tolleson also visited oil rigs to see how new technologies are implemented, experience the working conditions and see how drilling companies work with regulators to address environmental concerns related to the increased extraction activities in the area. Sen. Tolleson also met with local utilities to discuss how they plan on using a mix of technologies and resources to meet upcoming Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
The NCSL is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the nation’s 50 states, its commonwealths and territories. NCSL provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues.
For Immediate Release:
June 17, 2014
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Director
Emily Williams, Communications Associate
Emily.williams@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028