ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) – Opponents of natural gas drilling known as fracking say they are planning a protest at the entrance of the Maryland State House to back a complete ban of the drilling practice.

The protest is scheduled for Thursday. A moratorium already is in place, but it expires in October.

The House passed a ban last week 97-40.

Senate President Mike Miller has expressed support for a moratorium. On Wednesday, he said: “I’m favoring that fracking doesn’t take place any time in the near future.”

Gov. Larry Hogan hasn’t decided whether he would veto a measure banning fracking. Hogan said: “I don’t know that one’s necessary, but we’ll take a look at whatever the legislature decides to do with that.”

Opponents cite pollution concerns. Supporters say fracking would create jobs.

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