Staff Reports
In a blow to environmentalist groups and a major victory for American energy production, four environmentalist groups had their lawsuit to prevent the sale of drilling rights in the Gulf of Mexico thrown out by an appeals court. The Biden administration had requested a delay in the sale, but the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit dismissed the case, citing lack of standing. The court also ordered the auction of drilling rights to proceed within 37 days. This decision overturns efforts to protect the endangered whale and opens up 6 million acres of land for lease again.
Appeals Court Slaps Down Biden Administration's Attempt to Delay Oil Lease Sale. https://t.co/5sgpWHwsTI
— CJ4America2 (@GrammyC4Zone2) November 15, 2023
The American Petroleum Institute (API) praised the court’s decision, emphasizing the critical role the U.S. Gulf of Mexico plays in maintaining affordable and reliable American energy production. Chevron Corporation and the state of Louisiana also supported the expansion of drilling rights. However, environmental groups, including Sierra Club, Center for Biological Diversity, Friends of the Earth, and Turtle Island Restoration Network, expressed disappointment with the ruling. They argued that this decision could be the “death knell” for the nearly extinct Rice’s whale.
Under the Biden administration, fewer lease sales have taken place compared to previous administrations. The law requires oil drilling leases to be auctioned before wind turbines for clean energy production can be built in waters controlled by the Department of the Interior. Oil companies have warned of potential higher oil and gas prices due to limited oil drilling. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland’s statement primarily focused on supporting the growing offshore wind industry and protecting against potential environmental damage and adverse impacts to coastal communities.
This court decision strengthens American energy production and provides greater certainty for the essential energy workforce and the entire Gulf Coast economy. It highlights the importance of balancing environmental concerns with the need for reliable and affordable energy sources.
