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U.S. Interior Department Launches Public Input for New Offshore Drilling Plan

The 45-day comment period initiates the development of a five-year leasing program, potentially expanding into new Arctic areas and revising offshore boundaries.

Overview

  • The U.S. Interior Department has opened a 45-day public comment period to gather input for the 11th National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program.
  • The plan could include new drilling zones, such as the High Arctic, and revised boundaries for existing offshore areas.
  • This initiative follows President Trump’s directive to expand U.S. oil and gas production by reversing restrictions imposed by the previous administration.
  • Offshore leases currently account for 14% of U.S. crude oil production and generated $7 billion in federal revenue in FY2024.
  • The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management oversees 2,227 active leases, with 469 currently producing, as it begins shaping the next leasing program.