The U.S. Department of the Interior reports that, as directed by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1), it is rolling out a long-term schedule for offshore oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of America and Alaska’s Cook Inlet.

The Department states that inclusion of at least 30 lease sales in the Gulf of America underscores the region’s indispensable role in America’s energy ecosystem. The Gulf accounts for roughly 14–15% of U.S. crude oil production and serves as the linchpin of offshore energy output. These scheduled sales offer clarity and stability, encouraging investment in deepwater infrastructure, which is crucial for national energy resilience. The Gulf supports hundreds of thousands of jobs, contributes billions to GDP annually, and generates substantial federal and state revenues.

Alaska plays a vital role in America’s energy future, with Cook Inlet at the center of that opportunity. The plan includes six lease sales in Cook Inlet through 2032, ensuring new jobs, stronger local economies, and long-term investment in communities. Responsible development in Cook Inlet will reduce reliance on foreign imports and support Alaska’s tradition of powering America with homegrown energy.

Big Beautiful Gulf 1

The first sale under the new law, Gulf of America Lease Sale titled “Big Beautiful Gulf 1,” is set for Dec. 10, 2025. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management will publish the final notice at least 30 days before the sale.

The predictable lease sale schedule meets the law’s requirements and advances priorities of growing the economy, reducing dependence on foreign energy, and keeping America a global energy leader.

Erik Milito, president of the National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA), stated, “Today’s announcement restores the stability needed to keep America’s offshore energy future strong. A clear, long-term schedule of lease sales in the Gulf of America and Alaska’s Cook Inlet gives companies the certainty to invest, sustaining jobs and strengthening U.S. energy security.”

Offshore energy supports workers and supply chains nationwide, while revenues fund programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund. With this schedule, the Gulf of America will continue to anchor the economy, bolster national security, and support communities across all 50 states.

• More information on the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s leasing process is available HERE