The California Department of Conservation’s Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources is responsible for providing the state with drilling permits, keeping the environment and economy’s best interests in mind. Yet some people believe that supervisors in these departments are looking out for their personal interests rather than those of the state and its citizens.
Consumer watch groups are pointing their fingers at certain supervisors alleging that they are taking personal profits from the issuance drilling permits. The supervisors that are in charge over the department should have a separation of interests when it comes to approving drilling permits, performing inspections with drilling companies and regulating the industry. The drilling industry, like any other industry in the U.S., must follow certain restrictions and standards. If these standards are not met, it could endanger the public and the environment for future generations.
Rather than look out to what is best for the citizens, watch dog companies accuse supervisors of taking personal gifts and profits in exchange for permits and clean inspection reports.
If you find yourself in the middle of a gas and oil dispute or have questions as to whether an act is legal, you may want to speak to an attorney. A lawyer in California may be able to help clarify situations regarding lease disputes, ownership disputes and service provider arguments and explore potential legal pathways that could help you in the future.
Source: OilPrice.com, “Consumer Groups Want California Oil Regulators Fired Over Conflict of Interest,” Tsvetana Paraskova, Jul. 11, 2019.