SB3485 Summary

• Amends the Hydraulic Fracturing Regulatory Act by modifying definitions in Section 1-5 to add references to "horizontal drilling with fracturing operations" alongside existing hydraulic fracturing terminology.

• Adds new definitions for "flowback" (hydraulic fracturing fluid returning to surface after fracturing), "fracturing" or "stimulation treatment" (process of pumping fluids under pressure to create fractures for oil/gas extraction), and "horizontal drilling" (controlled directional drilling with lateral penetration of at least 100 feet).

• Redefines "high volume horizontal hydraulic fracturing operations" to mean all stages of controlled directional drilling with lateral penetration of at least 100 feet in targeted geologic formations using fracturing (removes prior specific volume thresholds of 80,000 gallons per stage or 300,000 gallons total).

• Updates related definitions including "horizontal well," "base fluid," "diesel," "hydraulic fracturing additive," and "proppant" to reference horizontal drilling with fracturing operations.

• Modifies "horizontal well" definition to remove the requirement of an 80-degree angle to vertical and the reference to a common source of hydrocarbon supply.