Colorado Energy & Carbon Management Commission has approved new rules for oil and gas development within the state on Oct. 15. According to the Denver Gazette, the rules will require oil and gas operators to meet new standards on cumulative impacts of past, present, and future oil and gas development in order to be permitted to develop new mineral resources, starting on Dec. 15, 2024.

The commission defines cumulative impacts as the effects on public health and environment, such as harm to air quality, water quality, the climate, wildlife, and biological resources, caused by the impacts newly proposed or amended oil and gas projects would have, in addition to impacts from other past, present, and future developments.

Industry representatives claim the new regulations are designed to destroy Colorado’s oil and gas industry.

Oil and gas operators will be required to submit a cumulative impact analysis with new permit applications, which will be reviewed by state agencies.