Last Monday, anti-fracking proponents in Colorado turned in a petition featuring nearly 200,000 signatures. That means the state is one step closer to having two statewide fracking referendums on the ballot this fall, reports CNBC.The petition reached the requisite signature number over the weekend thanks to a last-minute push by advocates.
The effort is supported by a grassroots coalition called “Yes for Health and Safety Over Fracking.”
One ballot initiative would give local governments the authority to regulate oil and gas development. The other measure would force mandatory oil and gas setbacks from waterways and public places like playgrounds.
The Colorado secretary of state's office confirmed the petition signatures were turned in before the deadline. The state has until Sept. 7 to announce whether the two referendums meet the threshold to make the fall ballot.