The first reading of the bill on the Nova Scotia fracking ban was tabled today, and here are the highlights:

No person shall engage in high-volume hydraulic fracturing in shale formations unless exempted by the regulations for the purpose of testing or research. Where the Minister reviews the prohibition, the Minister shall consider the net benefit to Nova Scotians, taking into account social issues; economic issues; health issues; environmental issues; scientific and technical issues; regulatory effectiveness and efficiency; and any other matter or thing that the Minister considers necessary or advisable.

The change of government in New Brunswick should lead to a moratorium. This leaves PEI as the only Atlantic province with no protection from the fracking industry.