New York State allows more time for people to comment on whether it should let gas companies drill into the Marcellus Shale formation.

The Department of Environmental Conservation has extended the public comment period on new regulations.

They're designed to deal with the extraction process called hydrofracking, which involves millions of gallons of water and some chemicals.

The DEC is giving people until December 31st to submit questions, comments or concerns through email, by mail or at one of four public hearings.

Environmental groups, residents and politicians criticized the agency for initially setting a 60-day comment period.

They argued that wasn't enough time to thoroughly review the 804 page Impact Statement.

For more information visit the website dec.ny.gov/energy/58440.