'Fracking' is well regulated

Your editorial "California should revisit its regulations on fracking" (Dec. 14) inaccurately implies that hydraulic fracturing projects have been approved in violation of the California Environmental Quality Act, and suggests that environmental regulation has been inadequate.

In fact, virtually all California drilling activities are overseen by one or more agencies. Existing regulations already provide for extensive environmental protection and worker and public safety.

However, it's important to address this issue. Therefore we're working with the state, local governments and stakeholders to review how CEQA is currently applied, to determine whether adjustments in historical CEQA practices would be beneficial and to ensure that CEQA continues to be applied properly.

Hydraulic fracturing has been employed in California for 60 years and there has never been evidence that it has caused harm to water supplies or the environment.

The Western State Petroleum Association and its members remain committed to producing safe, reliable energy supplies for California while continuing to protect the environment and public health.

CATHERINE REHEIS-BOYD

president, Western States Petroleum Association

Sacramento