The U.S. Department of Interior officially rescinded a 2024 rule that restricted oil and gas leasing on 13 million acres of Alaska’s National Petroleum Reserve.
The rescinded rule was originally enacted under President Joe Biden’s administration, intended to limit leasing to protect the environment.
What they’re saying: Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum stated, “By rescinding the 2024 rule, we are following the direction set by President Trump to unlock Alaska’s energy potential, create jobs for North Slope communities and strengthen American energy security.”
- The Interior Department emphasized that this decision restores what they call “commonsense management” of the reserve and supports responsible resource development that benefits both Alaska and the broader United States.
The big picture: The Bureau of Land Management will now oversee the reserve under updated regulations planned for 2025, reflecting a shift toward greater oil and gas leasing flexibility.
- This policy reversal is part of the Interior’s broader efforts to modernize resource management in Alaska, balancing development with environmental considerations.
