I live in Deposit in New York's Southern Tier and know first-hand how New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's decision to ban fracking has taken away our chance to transform our economically depressed communities into thriving ones ("New York bans fracking, citing health risks," Dec. 18).
I have three kids and a business that is struggling to make ends meet. Shale development would have given us a huge economic boost.¿ ¿
For years now New York has watched as Pennsylvanians reap the rewards of a thriving natural gas industry. From well-paying jobs to more affordable energy, shale development is clearly a win-win for any state.
There are risks with all types of energy development. But after a three-year study, Maryland's own Department of the Environment and Department of Natural Resources found that the risks of Marcellus Shale development are manageable under the state's regulations.
Governor Cuomo got it wrong for New York's residents, and we're the ones who are suffering the economic consequences. It would be unfortunate if Maryland made the same mistake.
Sandra Davis, Deposit, N.Y.