H.R.2886 - Defend our Coast Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2886, the "Defend our Coast Act," aims to amend the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act by withdrawing the Mid-Atlantic Planning Area from oil and gas leasing. This bill prevents the Secretary from issuing leases for exploration, development, or production of oil or gas in this specific area. The bill references the 2024-2029 National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Proposed Final Program (September 2023) for defining the Mid-Atlantic Planning Area.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to prohibit new oil and gas leases in the Mid-Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf. This could lead to a reduction in potential future domestic oil and gas production from this region. It may also impact energy companies that had planned to explore or develop resources in this area.
Potential Benefits
- Environmental Protection: Preserves marine ecosystems and coastlines from potential oil spills and habitat destruction.
- Climate Change Mitigation: Reduces the potential for increased greenhouse gas emissions from oil and gas extraction.
- Tourism and Recreation: Protects coastal areas that are vital for tourism and recreational activities.
- Fisheries: Safeguards fishing grounds and marine life, supporting the fishing industry.
- Reduced Risk: Decreases the risk of environmental disasters associated with offshore drilling.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced Energy Production: Limits domestic oil and gas production, potentially increasing reliance on foreign sources.
- Economic Impact: May negatively impact job creation and economic activity in the energy sector.
- Revenue Loss: Could result in decreased government revenue from lease sales and royalties.
- Increased Energy Costs: Potentially contributes to higher energy prices for consumers.
- Limited Resource Exploration: Prevents the exploration of potentially valuable energy resources.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) and manage federal lands. The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, which this bill amends, was originally enacted under this authority. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).