Particle.news
Download on the App Store

California Officials Urge Interior to Exclude State From Offshore Drilling Plan

BOEM is accepting public comments through the end of the month.

Overview

  • Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis joined lawmakers and environmental groups in Sacramento to oppose President Trump's expansion proposal and pressed for California's removal from upcoming lease sales.
  • Assemblymember Dawn Addis warned the plan threatens coastal industries and public health, citing more than $80 billion in coastal revenue and past Santa Barbara–area oil spills.
  • Addis said well testing last May at the Santa Ynez Unit suggested Sable Offshore Corp. may seek a restart, an allegation described in her letter and presented as a developing concern.
  • The Coalition of Labor Agriculture and Business argued offshore production is important to the economy and said restricting drilling could keep energy prices high for residents.
  • California Democrats are unified against the proposal, while several Republican members signaled support or neutrality rather than joining the opposition.