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Today, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management announced their process for developing a new National Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) lease sales program for the next 5 years. Alaska Congressman Don Young released the following statement:  

“I am very happy with the President’s and Secretary Zinke’s announcement of 19 lease sales in the Alaska outer continental shelf (OCS). Opening Alaska’s OCS to oil and gas exploration will maintain American security and strengthen our economy,” said Congressman Young. “The area under Alaska’s OCS contains ample resources for our nation. The previous administration crippled American development which caused our country to fall behind the rest of the world. With this announcement, the President is ensuring Alaska will continue to be a leader in oil and gas production while advancing America on our path to achieve energy independence.”

This announcement will begin the process for 47 lease sales around the country, including 19 on Alaska's OCS. President Trump signed Executive Order #13795 which lifts bans on offshore oil and gas exploration and production in the Arctic and Atlantic. Department of the Interior Secretary Zinke issued Order 3350 calling for enhancing OCS energy exploration, leasing, and development. The order also calls for establishing regulatory certainty for OCS activities and enhancing conservation stewardship. This includes creating a new leasing plan and reconsidering regulations that could impede expanded activity.