ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Opponents of the natural gas drilling method known as fracking are rallying in Annapolis ahead of a hearing on prohibiting the practice in Maryland.
A rally planned for Tuesday is being led by Don't Frack Maryland, a campaign of environmental activists and businesses in western Maryland, where fracking is being considered.
Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is a process by which highly pressurized water, chemicals and sand are pumped into the ground, shaking loose rocks and releasing gas.
The bill is one of several pieces of legislation proposed this session to limit or ban the drilling method. Another bill up for consideration place an eight-year moratorium on fracking until more information can be collected on public health risks.