Mar 9, 2018 Comments to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management on its Draft Proposed Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program for 2019-2024 and Notice of Intent to Prepare a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement
The Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA) appreciates the opportunity to submit comments on the 2019-2024 Draft Proposed Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Leasing Program (DPP). The federal OCS has been a foundation of American energy policy since the 1950’s and provides outstanding oil and natural gas exploration and production opportunities for independent producers. The offshore industry can and will bring large volumes of oil and natural gas safely and efficiently to market from currently unavailable areas of the OCS, if those areas are reasonably made available for leasing. As global energy demand continues to increase, a failure to provide U.S. producers with needed access to the OCS will increase U.S. energy prices, slow economic growth, and create hardship for American consumers. It is essential that the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) develop a leasing program that maximizes the opportunities for our nation to address its energy needs. Increasing the safe development of offshore oil and natural gas resources would create high-paying American jobs, economic development, and strengthen energy security for not only the coastal states but across the nation. IPAA believes that America’s long-term energy security and job creation should be top priorities for our nation.
