As the daughter of a country doctor who helped establish one of the first Planned Parenthoods in Vermont, and a mother who was a feminist and community leader, Edie was raised with the understanding that we have an obligation to serve those in need and to actively improve the quality of life in our communities. She has carried this understanding into her life’s work, in both the private and public sectors. A successful advocate for progressive candidates and causes, civic leader, and mother of two, she has focused her energy and experience on reproductive rights, climate action, affordable housing, access to quality education for all, and working to increase voter participation in the election process.
Oil and gas extraction plays an important role in our state’s economy, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of the health and safety of families. I fully supported SB-181 – the most meaningful oil and gas legislation passed in 60 years. Here’s what the bill does:
Refocus the mission of the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) to prioritize health, safety and the environment over industry profits;
Empower local governments to have a stronger say by clarifying basic powers such as zoning and noise limitations and allowing local oversight and enforcement of operations;
Direct air quality experts to consider rules to greatly reduce harmful emissions including methane, a dense greenhouse gas;
Better protects property owners from forced pooling;
Combat the growing problem of orphaned wells by setting forth a rule making around financial assurances and bonding requirements for oil and gas permits; and,
Create a professional, paid commission that is better equipped to handle permitting, rule-making and oversight.
I will continue to look for new opportunities to ensure the health and safety of Colorado communities is protected.