HB 5565 Summary

• Requires permit applicants for natural gas wells using hydraulic fracturing to submit detailed information including base fluid type and volume, additive trade names and suppliers, chemical ingredients with CAS numbers, concentrations, material safety data sheets, and evaluation of less risky alternatives.

• Mandates the Department of Environmental Quality post all submitted hydraulic fracturing treatment information on its website for at least 60 days of public notice and comment before approval, with information remaining posted for 3 years after treatment completion.

• Allows chemical ingredients to claim trade secret protection by submitting the specific chemical identity, CAS number, and substantiating facts to the department; trade secrets are protected unless successfully challenged within 2 years of chemical use.

• Requires permittees to submit annually by February 1 a master list and report detailing all chemical ingredients and quantities used in hydraulic fracturing treatments, with trade secret identities disclosed only to the department while chemical families are publicly listed.

• Requires disclosure of trade secret chemical information to health care professionals immediately in medical emergencies or upon receipt of written statement of need for diagnosis or treatment, with health professionals bound by confidentiality obligations.