The American Petroleum Institute released a study showing that, in 2015, the U.S. natural gas and oil industry supported 232,900 jobs in the state and contributed $31.38 billion to Colorado’s economy.

Colorado Petroleum Council Executive Director Tracee Bentley said this about the results of the study:

“This economic activity generates financial benefits and supports jobs well beyond the energy sector. More than 1,100 businesses spread across the state are part of the larger oil and natural gas supply chain, which includes over 260 companies in Denver and more than 70 companies in Grand Junction. School districts in Colorado received nearly $202 million from oil and gas production property taxes in 2012 alone.”

In other words, the benefit to Colorado and our families is clear.

That’s why it’s so puzzling that candidates like Democratic U.S. Rep. Jared Polis, and candidate for Governor, want to effectively ban oil and natural gas development in Colorado. Let’s be honest Polis only cares about the view from his garage, not the well-being of our families. Should make a great Governor, no?

The study was commissioned by API and conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers.