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Environmental legislation that gives leeway to a North Carolina state panel in creating air pollution rules for fracking has been signed into law by Gov. Pat McCrory.

The governor signed the measure soon after the Senate gave final General Assembly approval to the bill earlier this week, which cleans up environmental laws already in place. The legislation adjusts the 2012 law authorizing hydraulic fracturing for drilling natural gas and directing exploration rules be created.

The new law says the Environmental Management Commission doesn’t have to create its own toxic-air regulations if it finds existing regulations are adequate.

Supporters say the change was needed now because the other fracking rules have taken effect.

Drilling opponents say the bill makes it less likely top-notch emissions restrictions will occur.

Topics Legislation North Carolina Pollution