DENVER, February 24, 2015 ─ API urged lawmakers to carefully review the recommendations put forth today by Governor John Hickenlooper’s task force on oil and natural gas development.

“The task force has engaged in a thoughtful dialogue about Colorado’s future as an energy leader,” said API Director of Upstream and Industry Operations Erik Milito. “But there is more to do. State policymakers must avoid creating unnecessary or unintentional roadblocks to the responsible energy production that is driving Colorado’s economic growth. Our industry has a long history of working collaboratively with state and local officials in Colorado to protect the environment and create jobs, and we’ll continue to work with policymakers to ensure the state remains at the forefront of America’s energy renaissance.

“Maintaining a balance is critical. Colorado has comprehensive and robust regulations covering oil and gas operations that still allow industry to support 200,000 jobs in the state. With the right energy policies, we can create thousands of additional jobs, generate more revenue to help support local schools, develop infrastructure, and preserve Colorado’s leading role in America’s energy revolution.”

API is the only national trade association representing all facets of the oil and natural gas industry, which supports 9.8 million U.S. jobs and 8 percent of the U.S. economy. API’s more than 625 members include large integrated companies, as well as exploration and production, refining, marketing, pipeline, and marine businesses, and service and supply firms. They provide most of the nation’s energy and are backed by a growing grassroots movement of more than 25 million Americans.