Bill Passed

The state Senate passed two bills to aid the oil and gas industry Tuesday. One would dramatically scale back the ability of neighboring property owners to sue over noise, dust and light pollution, and one would allow drillers to begin building access roads and well pads without first getting a well permit. Republicans admitted that the bill narrowed the ability of property owners to file suit, but said it was about finding a balance between the interests of businesses and their neighbors. Senate Majority Leader Mitch Carmichael, R-Jackson, said the bill is meant to cut down on frivolous lawsuits.