Obama looks to appeal judge's rejection of fracking rules

The Obama administration said it may appeal a federal judge's decision scrapping the Interior Department's strict rules on fracking.

The Justice Department filed notice on Friday that it is looking to appeal the decision in the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals.

The filing only protects the right to appeal within the time period allowed after a ruling is made, said an agency spokeswoman. But the department has not decided whether to actually appeal, she added.

The Tuesday ruling made by Judge Scott Skavdahl, who was appointed by President Obama, was seen as a major blow to the administration's environmental agenda, which the oil and gas industry and the GOP have adamantly opposed.

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