A moratorium on new drilling permits relying on hydraulic fracturing to stimulate the well has passed the NY State Assembly and awaits Governor Paterson's signature, according to this article in the NYT. "The State Assembly voted 93 to 43 on Monday night to block new permits for the drilling practice, known as hydraulic fracturing, until May 15. The purpose would be to give the state more time to address safety and environmental worries, especially concerns that the drilling could contaminate groundwater supplies."