RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) North Carolina could require companies to pay to repair roads after fracking operations.

The News & Observer of Raleigh reported the agency’s suggestion to state lawmakers Dec. 2 was met with some criticism.

Republican Sen. E.S. Newton of Wilson said concerns about North Carolina’s roads must not hamper drilling operations. Newton is a member of the Legislative Commission on Energy Policy.

Drilling operations use dump trucks, tanker trucks and 18-wheel rigs that can damage the two-lane country roads in the rural counties where shale gas exploration is expected.

Transportation engineer Brandon Jones said the agency could require that companies carry a bond of $100,000 per mile of road used for their equipment.

Newton said he does not want the state’s policy to make it harder for the companies.

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