Misinformation is being spread about how New York could benefit from fracking, according to a nonprofit research firm.
A 2025 report from the Heritage Foundation about fracking’s economic benefits for the Southern Tier is an election talking point for some candidates. The state banned fracking in 2015, citing public health risks and environmental concerns, which outweighed any economic benefits.
Sean O’Leary, senior researcher for the Ohio River Valley Institute, said nearby Pennsylvania counties with fracking see the same economic impacts as New York counties without it.
“Those counties have actually suffered significant job loss and significant population loss that is statistically almost indistinguishable from the job loss and population loss that have afflicted counties on the New York side of the border,” O’Leary explained.
The Heritage Foundation report considers fracking a way to boost revenues for counties but data collected by O’Leary notes it is hardly the case. He found most of the money made from fracking does not have local impact since it goes to investors, service providers and shareholders outside the region. He noted income from fracking in Pennsylvania grew just as residents’ income dropped, wiping out any net increase.
Research shows the affected counties fall into what’s called the “resource curse.” In this case, O’Leary pointed out it is when areas like New York’s Southern Tier have natural resources with great commercial value but see little to no economic benefit after they’re extracted. He argued the counties’ older building stock can create real economic growth.
“Communities can achieve significant and genuine economic growth and prosperity by reinvesting in that infrastructure, transitioning to renewable energy resources and by engaging in energy efficiency,” O’Leary outlined.
The changes can make buildings more energy-efficient and productive.
Fracking has become a key piece of the New York gubernatorial race as Republican candidate Bruce Blakeman is vowing to remove the state’s ban on fracking if elected. However, Gov. Kathy Hochul has doubled down on maintaining the ban.
Edwin is a reporter and producer in North Tonawanda, New York. He’s previously reported for the Niagara Gazette and the Ithaca Times. Edwin got an early start in radio interning for WBFO-88.7FM, NPR’s Buffalo affiliate. In 2018, he graduated from SUNY Buffalo State College with a B.A. in Journalism, and in 2022, graduated from Syracuse University with an M.S. in Communications.
