Grant Township, located in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, has made history by passing a groundbreaking law that legalizes nonviolent direct action to halt frack wastewater injection wells within the Township. This move comes in response to Pennsylvania General Energy Company’s (PGE) lawsuit against the Township, seeking to overturn a local law prohibiting injection wells.
In the event that the courts fail to uphold the people’s right to protect their community from corporate activities endangering their well-being, the newly enacted ordinance empowers individuals to enforce the Township’s Charter through nonviolent direct action. Moreover, the law explicitly shields participants in nonviolent direct action from facing criminal charges or civil actions initiated by private or public entities.
Stacy Long, a Supervisor in Grant Township, expressed frustration with corporations and regulatory agencies dismissing the community’s concerns about the proposed injection well. “We’re tired of being told that we can’t stop this injection well,” Long stated. “As elected officials, we are committed to safeguarding the health and safety of our Township residents, and we will do whatever it takes to resist threats posed by companies like PGE.”
The controversy surrounding the injection well dates back to 2013 when residents discovered PGE’s plans to obtain permits for the project. Despite opposition voiced through hearings, public comments, and permit appeals, the federal Environmental Protection Agency granted PGE a permit. In response, residents turned to the Community Environmental Legal Defense Fund (CELDF) for assistance.
In June 2014, with strong community support, Grant Township passed a Community Bill of Rights ordinance drafted by CELDF, asserting rights to clean air and water, local community self-government, and the rights of nature. This ordinance effectively prohibited the proposed injection well as a violation of these rights. However, PGE promptly filed a lawsuit against the Township, claiming a “right” to inject within its boundaries.
Despite legal challenges, the Township remained steadfast in its commitment to protect its residents. In November 2015, residents voted to adopt a new Home Rule Charter, reinstating the ban on injection wells by a significant majority. CELDF has been instrumental in drafting the Charter and representing the Township in its ongoing legal battle with PGE.
Jon Perry, another Supervisor in Grant Township, emphasized the importance of community rights in the face of corporate interests. “Sides need to be picked,” Perry stated. “Should a polluting corporation have the right to inject toxic waste, or should a community have the right to protect itself?”
Support for Grant Township’s stance is growing, with individuals like Tim DeChristopher from the Climate Disobedience Center expressing solidarity. CELDF community organizer Chad Nicholson commended the Township for asserting its rights and standing up against unjust laws, drawing parallels to historical movements for justice and equality.
As the legal battle continues, Grant Township remains resolute in its determination to defend its community and its Charter, inviting others to stand alongside them in their fight against corporate encroachment.