Resource-rich Pennsylvania has been a dream come true for the population and the economy. Shale and fracking were once magic words for the state of Pennsylvania. Jobs were aplenty for people to engage in. This was the solution for them following the crippling effects of the Great Depression.

There have always been debatable issues with the local gas extraction process, namely fracking. Apart from the massive environmental implications that relentless fracking gave rise to, the industry has been on unstable ground for some time now.

Huge investments in infrastructure are needed in this industry, and returns have been diminishing in recent times. Workers are now facing the impact of the massive economic halt. Investments are harder to come by as companies are wary of commitments in these times. 

Fracking is a contentious topic in the state. In a 2020 poll, the opposition seems to have gained an edge. People are increasingly leaning towards the anti-fracking movement, mainly because of the huge environmental costs they have to bear. 

Contrasting this is the disturbing job loss scenario which grows more dire with every passing day. Banning fracking could cost many people their livelihoods and hurt the economy.

The question for debate is, should fracking be banned in the state of Pennsylvania?