The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has released the Gulf of Mexico (GOM) Regional Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Lease Sales Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

In December 2023, the Department of the Interior unveiled the 2024-2029 National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program, which includes only three oil and gas lease sales in the GOM over the next five years.

BOEM’s program aims to balance the nation’s energy security and climate goals by offering the fewest oil and gas lease sales in history. The program excludes lease sales in Atlantic, Pacific, and Alaskan waters, focusing on clean energy transition.

The Programmatic EIS will guide the decision-making process for the first GOM oil and gas lease sale under the program. It will also inform future proposed lease sales and support post-lease activities. The final EIS will be available to the public 30 days before any decision.

Section 18 of the OCS Lands Act empowers the Secretary of the Interior to establish lease sale schedules based on regional and national energy needs, considering environmental impacts.

The Notice of Availability for the EIS will be published in the Federal Register, initiating a 45-day comment period.

NOIA’s Response

National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) President Erik Milito commended BOEM’s progress towards the first Gulf of Mexico lease sale. He emphasized the Gulf’s crucial role in energy security, economic growth, and environmental stewardship.

NOIA advocates for maximizing available acreage in the Gulf to support energy production, job creation, and environmental sustainability. The organization urges policymakers to reassess the limited lease sale schedule and promote investment in U.S. projects for energy security and leadership.

NOIA is committed to collaborating with stakeholders to uphold the Gulf of Mexico as a cornerstone of American energy landscape and environmental conservation.