House committee substitute makes the following changes to 2nd edition.
Amends GS 113-395 to increase the well drilling permit fee to $3,000 (was, $1,500) per well. Directs the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to report the findings and recommendations from its study on oil and gas exploration and the use of directional and horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing to the Environmental Review Commission by February 1, 2012 (was, September 1, 2011). Expands and clarifies issues to be included in the study. Appropriates $100,000 from the General Fund to DENR for 2011-12 to complete the study and required public hearings. Makes clarifying changes, and conforming changes to the bill title.