Trump Administration Proposes Reducing Public Input on Oil and Gas Leasing

The Trump administration has proposed reducing the public comment period for new oil and gas leases from 90 days to 10 days. This change is part of a revision to the Interior Department’s oil and gas policy, which aims to expedite the leasing process for developers. The proposed changes include eliminating certain public participation requirements and returning bonding standards for new leases to lower amounts. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated that these updates are intended to enhance regulatory clarity and promote investment in public lands. The proposed rule will undergo a 60-day public comment period once published in the Federal Register.