ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) -  New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (KWOH'-moh) says he will continue to await health studies before determining whether to allow natural gas drilling in New York. He also discounted the importance of his private conversations.

Cuomo spokesman Josh Vlasto wouldn't comment on statements by environmental activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about conversations with the governor on the issue. Kennedy is Cuomo's former brother-in-law.

Several people familiar with Cuomo's thinking says the governor came as close as he ever has to approving fracking last month. But they say he decided against making a final decision pending a new and expansive health study being done in Pennsylvania.

Vlasto says the governor will await state analysis before making a decision and that hasn't changed with "any conversations."

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