The head of the Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma says this week’s move by Halliburton to shut down its El Reno operations should be a warning to state leaders. But the state leaders aren’t commenting publicly.
“This announcement is a reminder that no state, no community, no company is immune from negative impacts when you have a significant decline in drilling activity,” said Chad Warmington, President of the organization. “It’s going to require our state’s leaders to be extremely thoughtful in the months ahead about how to keep Oklahoma competitive.”
He issued the statement in response to a request from OK Energy Today.
As for state leaders, they are mum about the layoffs of an estimated 800 workers who were based out of the Halliburton Command Center in El Reno.
Governor Kevin Stitt’s office did not offer any comment when requested by OK Energy Today.
Neither did Oklahoma Energy Secretary Ken Wagner when asked for a reaction.
Commerce Secretary Sean Kouplen also did not respond.
Oklahoma Congressman Frank Lucas issued a statement on Tuesday saying “With the slow down of exploration in Oklahoma, in part by low prices, I was more disappointed than surprised by Halliburton’s decision.”