Louisiana House Bill HR139

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/9/16
• Passed: 5/11/16

Caption

Urges the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to maintain region-wide leasing in the Gulf of Mexico in the 2017-2022 Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the economic significance of the Gulf of Mexico in the U.S. oil and gas sector, noting that it contributes significantly to the national crude oil supply and supports hundreds of thousands of jobs. It references the economic benefits outlined in BOEM's draft program, suggesting that any removal of leasing areas could lead to significant financial losses estimated between $5 billion to $13 billion, emphasizing the vital nature of offshore energy development for both Louisiana and the national economy.

Summary

House Resolution 139 urges the United States Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to maintain region-wide leasing for oil and gas in the Gulf of Mexico as part of its 2017-2022 Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program. The resolution signals strong support from Louisiana’s oil and gas industry, which is crucial to the state's economy and employment. Advocates of the resolution argue that maintaining leasing in this area is essential for ensuring a stable supply of energy that fuels both local and national economies.

Sentiment

Support for HR139 is broadly positive within the Louisiana legislature and among stakeholders in the oil and gas industry, who view this as a necessary step to preserve local jobs and economic vitality. However, the sentiment surrounding offshore drilling remains contentious among environmental groups and certain public sectors who argue for greater environmental protection and caution against over-reliance on fossil fuels. This division reflects ongoing debates about balancing economic development with environmental sustainability.

Contention

Notably, the resolution calls for the continued access to all areas of the Gulf, which might face opposition from environmentalists concerned about the potential detrimental impacts of drilling on marine ecosystems. While the resolution is framed as a pro-economy stance, it encapsulates larger discussions on energy policy, climate change, and the need for comprehensive environmental regulations, highlighting a potential area of contention between economic interests and ecological preservation.