H.R.2848 - Stop Arctic Ocean Drilling Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2848, the "Stop Arctic Ocean Drilling Act of 2025," aims to prohibit oil and gas leasing in Arctic areas of the Outer Continental Shelf. The bill amends Section 8 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to prevent the Secretary of the Interior from issuing or extending leases for exploration, development, or production of oil, natural gas, or any other mineral in these Arctic areas. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on April 10, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would halt any new or extended oil and gas leasing activities in the Arctic Ocean. This would likely lead to a reduction in potential domestic oil and gas production. It could also impact energy companies that have invested in or planned to invest in Arctic drilling projects.
Potential Benefits
- Environmental Protection: Prevents potential oil spills and environmental damage in the sensitive Arctic ecosystem.
- Climate Change Mitigation: Reduces the potential for increased greenhouse gas emissions from Arctic oil and gas extraction.
- Protection of Wildlife: Safeguards Arctic wildlife and their habitats from the impacts of drilling activities.
- Preservation of Indigenous Culture: Protects the traditional way of life for Indigenous communities that depend on the Arctic environment.
- Reduced Risk of Accidents: Eliminates the risk of accidents associated with Arctic drilling, such as blowouts or equipment failures.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced Energy Production: Limits domestic oil and gas production, potentially increasing reliance on foreign sources.
- Job Losses: Could lead to job losses in the oil and gas industry, particularly in regions dependent on Arctic drilling.
- Economic Impact: May negatively impact the economy of Alaska and other areas that benefit from oil and gas revenues.
- Increased Energy Costs: Could potentially increase energy costs for consumers due to reduced supply.
- Missed Revenue Opportunities: Prevents the government from collecting royalties and other revenues from Arctic oil and gas leases.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution is complex. Congress has the power to regulate commerce (Article I, Section 8), which could be argued to extend to regulating offshore drilling. However, some might argue that restricting access to resources infringes upon states' rights or economic liberties. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific individual rights outlined in the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).