Mayor Moncrief’s staff is correct in pointing out that state law must change regarding gas drilling. Changes that are needed include, for example, stronger surface property owners’ rights and greater municipal authority to regulate drilling activities. My colleagues and I are working hard on new legislation; however, the next legislative session does not begin until January 2011. Until that time, the City of Fort Worth needs to fully utilize the authority it does have to ensure the health and safety of its residents. It has consistently failed to do so. Despite the mayor’s spokesperson’s claim to the contrary, the city has significant authority to protect public health. With time being of the essence, the city needs to act now to protect its citizens.

Lon Burnam, State Representative, House District 90