APNewsBreak: Cuomo says facts key to NY fracking
APNewsBreak: Cuomo says facts, not private conversations, still key to NY fracking decision
These 2013 file photos show New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, left, in Albany, N.Y. and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in Dallas, Texas. People familiar with Cuomo's thinking on fracking tell The Associated Press he was on the brink of approving the much-debated gas drilling method in February 2013 but held off after discussions with environmentalist and former brother-in-law, Kennedy. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) -- New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (KWOH'-moh) says he will continue to await health studies before determining whether to allow natural gas drilling in New York. He also discounted the importance of his private conversations.
Cuomo spokesman Josh Vlasto wouldn't comment on statements by environmental activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about conversations with the governor on the issue. Kennedy is Cuomo's former brother-in-law.
Several people familiar with Cuomo's thinking says the governor came as close as he ever has to approving fracking last month. But they say he decided against making a final decision pending a new and expansive health study being done in Pennsylvania.
Vlasto says the governor will await state analysis before making a decision and that hasn't changed with "any conversations."
