The Biden administration's controversial offshore drilling plan in the Gulf of Mexico is facing a rare legal battle, with both environmental groups and oil companies filing lawsuits.
On one side, Earthjustice, representing eight Gulf-based environmental organizations, has petitioned the U.S. appeals court. They accuse the Interior Department of neglecting public health impacts on frontline communities in its five-year drilling strategy.
Simultaneously, the American Petroleum Institute (API) has sued the administration, arguing that limiting drilling leases could force Americans to rely more on foreign energy sources. The plan, approved in December, includes three oil-and-gas auctions through 2029—the fewest since 1980.
Environmental advocates warn that increased leasing could harm ecosystems, endanger community health, and derail U.S. climate goals. Brettny Hardy of Earthjustice highlighted that Gulf coast residents already face significant health challenges from industrial pollution, which could worsen with new drilling approvals.
Conversely, API General Counsel Ryan Meyers claims that restricting access to energy resources could lead to higher fuel prices and greater dependence on foreign oil. He emphasized the growing demand for affordable energy and criticized the administration's approach to federal waters.
This dual legal challenge underscores the intense debate over energy policy in the U.S., balancing economic interests with environmental protection and public health.
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U.S. govt oil drilling plan sued by green groups, oil companies
cgtn.com
