The Duchesne County Commission is standing up to what they consider the war the Biden administration is waging on the Oil and Gas Industry. Community Development Director Mike Hyde presented an article to the Commission last week about new environmental rules from the administration. He then presented a letter written in response on behalf of Duchesne County. The letter states that the new guidance for the consideration of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, although not legally enforceable, will be used to weaponize NEPA to litigate and prevent beneficial projects. especially those associated with the production or transportation of oil and natural gas products. A portion of the letter reads: “If the CEQ and other federal agencies are going to follow the ‘Rule of Reason’ mentioned throughout the guidance, the essential nature of fossil fuels for society should be first and foremost in our minds. The reason dictates that many will freeze in the winter or die from heat waves in the summer if fossil fuel development is curtailed as a result of this guidance. Crude oil and natural gas produced in our County are used for many products that we rely on and use on a daily basis. A few of the most common uses for crude oil and natural gas are National Defense, Vehicles, Construction, Clothing, Fashion Accessories, Fuels, Household Items, Beauty Products, Medical Products, Furniture, Sporting Goods, Electronics, Office Supplies, Toys, and Agriculture.” The Commission thanked Director Hyde for his work and approved the 13-page letter.
