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State Senators File Anti-Fracking Bill

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - A pair of Florida senators want the state to just say no to fracking.

Sen. Dwight Bullard, D-Miami, and Sen. Darren Soto, D-Orlando, have filed legislation to ban fracking in the state to protect the water supply, environment and robust tourism economy.

"Florida is home to scenic beaches, wonderful springs and the legendary Everglades. This natural beauty, in turn, fosters a strong tourism industry, annually attracting many new residents to our shores. It must be preserved" said Senator Soto. "We Floridians also get the vast majority of our water supply from ground water through the Floridan Aquifer. This critical water source must be protected from pollution to assure ample, clean water for future generations."

The controversy over fracking began earlier this year after the discovery of one company's oil fracking operations in the fragile Everglades region.

Florida Power & Light has asked the state's Public Service Commission for permission to enter into the natural gas fracking business in Oklahoma.

Read:  FPL Wants State Approval For Natural Gas Plan

The lawmakers want to preempt any such attempts here in Florida.

The Soto/Bullard fracking ban would apply to all hydraulic fracturing activities. The legislation has been filed for the 2015 legislative session which begins in March.

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