OREANDA-NEWS. January 27, 2016. The rules proposed today by the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) conflict with the Task Force’s original recommendations, said Colorado Petroleum Council (CPC) Executive Director Tracee Bentley.

“Energy is fundamental to our society, and thanks to innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, Colorado stands among the country’s leaders in energy production and environmental improvement. To remain an energy leader, we must balance a healthy, growing economy with rules that do not hinder progress and encourage innovation.

“While it is clear that a significant portion of these rules do go far beyond the scope of the original Task Force recommendations, we recognize and appreciate the collaboration from the COGCC staff and other stakeholders who participated in this process.

“Attempting to regulate relationships via regulatory rulemakings is extremely difficult, as demonstrated by this process. The oil and natural gas industry will continue dialogue with local governments and all stakeholders on proposals that support Colorado’s economic prosperity and benefits to consumers. Coloradan energy policies can be an example for how the U.S. can grow its economy and create jobs rather than stifling energy development in the state with additional roadblocks for energy development and fewer benefits for Coloradans.

“Colorado’s oil and natural gas industry will continue to work hard to develop and support the sound regulation of fuels that make modern living economically possible and environmentally sound. Colorado will remain an energy and jobs growth leader only if we get our energy policy right today.”

The CPC is a division of API, which represents all segments of America’s oil and natural gas industry. Its more than 650 members produce, process, and distribute most of the nation’s energy. The industry also supports 9.8 million U.S. jobs and 8 percent of the U.S. economy.