Staff Report / June 27, 2026
ALBANY – Several environmental advocacy organizations are asking a federal court for permission to participate in an ongoing legal battle over New York’s long-standing ban on hydraulic fracturing. The groups filed a motion seeking to intervene in support of New York State as it defends the prohibition against a lawsuit challenging the legality of the state’s restrictions on fracking. The organizations argue that they played a significant role in the years-long effort that ultimately led to New York banning high-volume hydraulic fracturing in 2015.
According to the filing, the groups contend that the state’s ban was based on extensive scientific and public health research conducted by state agencies. They also maintain that the prohibition remains necessary to safeguard drinking water supplies, public health, and environmentally sensitive areas throughout New York. State Attorney General Letitia James has already asked the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York to dismiss the lawsuit challenging the ban.
Key facts related to the case include:
- Environmental organizations have petitioned a federal court to intervene in defense of New York’s fracking ban.
- The groups seek to support New York State in a lawsuit challenging the prohibition.
- New York finalized its ban on high-volume hydraulic fracturing in 2015.
- The organizations argue that the ban was supported by scientific, environmental, and public health findings.
- Attorney General Letitia James has requested dismissal of the lawsuit.
- The legal challenge was filed earlier this year and contests the constitutionality of the state’s fracking restrictions.
