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Quebec Passes Hydrocarbon Bill That Opens Oil and Gas Reserves

  • Bill 106 passes after late-night debate in National Assembly
  • Energy company shares had jumped in anticipation of passage
Oil Refinery, Quebec City, Quebec
Photographer: David Thompson/Getty Images/First Light

Quebec passed hydrocarbon legislation that is likely to open up shale gas and oil reserves to energy companies operating in the province.

Bill 106, introduced in June, passed by a margin of 62 to 38. It creates a new agency to promote Quebec’s transition to cleaner energy but also includes the Petroleum Resources Act, which may clear the way for more exploration.