Congresswoman April McClain Delaney Releases Statement on Voting ‘No’ on H.R. 26

Congresswoman April McClain Delaney Releases Statement on Voting ‘No’ on H.R. 26

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman April McClain Delaney released the following statement on voting ‘no’ on H.R. 26:

“I agreed with former Governor Larry Hogan when he signed a law to ban fracking in Maryland, not only to protect our environment but also to support our vital outdoor tourism industries in Western Maryland and many other communities. In Maryland’s 6th District, this common-sense decision had wide bipartisan support from my constituents. 

The chemicals released by fracking have the potential to contaminate the water supply, leading to increased cancer rates, birth defects and neurological disorders in nearby towns. In the air, contaminants can cause serious respiratory issues such as asthma. Studies have shown that children are the most susceptible to these impacts.

I ran for Congress to help build a brighter, safer future for the next generation–that includes a healthy environment that our children can grow up and grow old in. When it comes to protecting the health of our families, you can always count on my vote.”

According to its Business Impact Report, Garrett County’s tourism supported over 4,000 jobs and contributed over $360 million to its local economy in 2024 alone. This industry relies heavily on the safety of the environment for year-round outdoor recreation, including skiing, hiking and water sports in and around Deep Creek.

In Allegany County, the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail has boosted revenue for local hotels, restaurants and businesses–even driving an increase in property values near the trail. Tourism supports 3,600 jobs in Allegany County, generating $168 million in visitor spending and $48 million in tourism tax revenues annually.

For updates, follow Rep. McClain Delaney at @RepAprilDelaney.

Congresswoman April McClain Delaney was elected in 2024 to serve Maryland’s 6th Congressional District, which encompasses all or part of Montgomery, Frederick, Washington, Allegany and Garrett Counties. In Congress, McClain Delaney is focused on improving US competitiveness and innovation, protecting our natural environment and championing policies that represent the values and priorities of Maryland’s 6th District.