Common Question: Why are states best positioned to regulate oil & natural gas?

"The main reason it's important for states to be in charge of regulation of their natural resources is the huge variability from states to state of the geography, culture, workforce and topography - all of the things that we know vary tremendously across this huge nation."

-- Lynn Helms, Director, North Dakota Department of Mineral Resource

State regulatory programs have been at the forefront of oil and gas exploration since the 1930s. These programs, which are as varied as the geography, climate, geology and social fabric of our states, are designed to be flexible, yet effective, in providing the world’s best environmental protection and regulation. The states’ ability to design effective regulations that reflect state-specific needs is a vital element in the resurgence of our nation’s oil and natural gas industry.