WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) released the following statement regarding the Administration’s proposed final 2012-2017 Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Leasing Program:

“The Obama Administration’s decision today is a major step backwards for job creation and America’s energy security.  The Administration has not only dropped its initial support for new oil and gas leasing off the Atlantic Coast, but has also reversed earlier proposals for leasing off the coast of Virginia.

“The Administration has taken this radical step even though Virginia’s Democratic Senators and Republican Governor support oil and gas leasing off the coast of their state.  Like most Americans, Virginia’s representatives recognize that oil and gas exploration creates good-paying jobs, generates revenues for state and local communities, and increases our nation’s energy security. 

“With 8.2 percent national unemployment, the Obama Administration had every reason to put thousands of Americans back to work through a robust oil and gas leasing program.  Instead, the White House once again put the agenda of a few environmentalist extremists over the interests of unemployed Americans.

“Congress must act immediately and amend the Administration’s plan to expand access to America’s abundant offshore oil and gas resources.” 

Background:

The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) requires the Secretary of the Interior to prepare an offshore oil and gas leasing plan. In November of 2011, the Secretary issued a proposed draft leasing plan for 2012 to 2017. On June 28, 2012, the Secretary issued a proposed final leasing plan for 2012 to 2017. Under the OCSLA, Congress has 60 days to review the plan before the Secretary can approve it.

Senator Barrasso is the only Republican member of both the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. 

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