Supporters
of a measure to end hydraulic fracking to extract oil and natural gas in
Michigan have again fallen short on signatures. The Committee to Ban Fracking
in Michigan collected 150,000 signatures, more than 100,000 short of the
252,523 minimum.
The
Michigan Oil and Gas Association commented that a lack of signatures shows a
lack of support for this measure. Additionally, the group remarked Michigan is
enjoying the benefits of Michigan produced natural gas and oil, and these
benefits will continue to turn away voters from supporting a ban.
Campaign
director LuAnn Kouza commented 150,000 signatures is double the size from two
years ago, but acknowledges the group needs to continue to work to secure
signatures. They are hopeful with backing from the Michigan Nurses Association
and growing opposition to fracking, more people will continue to support their
proposal. A survey conducted November 5-8 by the Public Policy Polling survey
showed 49 percent supporting the ban and 36 percent opposed with 624
respondents. A survey conducted in May showed 44 percent supporting the ban
with 39 percent opposed with 855 respondents.
The
Committee to Ban Fracking in Michigan will continue to collect signatures until
the June 1st deadline for the 2016 ballot.