Biden Moves to Ban New Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling in Most U.S. Waters
President Joe Biden has taken decisive action to prohibit new offshore oil and gas drilling in the majority of U.S. coastal waters. This move, aimed at blocking potential expansion of offshore drilling by the incoming Trump administration, utilizes the president’s authority under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to protect specific offshore areas.
The Biden administration frames this decision as a response to the climate crisis and a step towards a clean energy economy. The executive orders protect over 625 million acres of federal waters but do not affect large parts of the Gulf of Mexico.
Legal experts suggest that Biden’s actions could be challenging for President-elect Donald Trump to reverse without congressional intervention. The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act grants the president the power to withdraw areas from mineral leasing. However, Trump has already expressed intentions to overturn Biden’s ban immediately upon taking office, advocating for American “energy dominance” and increased oil and gas drilling.
Environmental advocates have praised Biden’s decision as a significant victory for ocean protection, viewing it as part of a bipartisan tradition of safeguarding coastal waters. Critics, on the other hand, argue that the ban undermines American energy consumers and the economic benefits of domestic energy production. The National Ocean Industries Association has criticized the decision as politically motivated.
Looking ahead, Biden proposes limited oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico, with none planned for Alaska. A five-year drilling plan includes proposed sales in 2025, 2027, and 2029, attempting to strike a balance between energy production and environmental concerns. However, Biden’s past decisions, such as the approval of the Willow oil project, have drawn criticism from environmental groups.
Coastal communities and businesses have expressed support for Biden’s actions, citing concerns about threats to coastal economies and ecosystems from offshore drilling. The decision aims to protect regions facing increased risks from climate change, such as stronger storms and rising sea levels.
As the debate over offshore drilling and energy policy continues, the impact of this decision on regional communities and the broader energy landscape remains to be seen.