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Lawmakers consider effectiveness of orphan oil and gas well program

The article from MSN discusses the ongoing debate among lawmakers regarding the effectiveness of the Orphan Well Program, which is designed to address the environmental and safety hazards posed by abandoned oil and gas wells. These wells, often referred to as "orphan wells," are left without a responsible party to manage or plug them, leading to potential leaks of methane and other pollutants. The program, funded by federal and state resources, aims to plug these wells, but there are concerns about its efficiency, funding, and the actual number of wells being addressed. Critics argue that the program lacks sufficient oversight and funding, resulting in slow progress and potential waste of taxpayer money. There's also a push for better tracking and accountability to ensure that the wells are not only plugged but also that the sites are properly remediated. The discussion includes calls for legislative reforms to enhance the program's impact, ensuring that it not only deals with current wells but also prevents future occurrences through stricter regulations on oil and gas companies.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/politics/government/lawmakers-consider-effectiveness-of-orphan-oil-and-gas-well-program/ar-AA1vPFdx ]