Summary and analysis of public comments published by the Department of the Interior

Biden Moves to Ban Oil and Gas Leases in Nevada for 20 Years and in Offshore Waters to Protect Sensitive Marine Areas

Jan 2, 2025, 11:33 AM

President Joe Biden is taking steps to restrict oil and gas development in two significant areas as his term nears its end. In Nevada, the Biden administration has moved to ban oil and gas leases for 20 years in the Ruby Mountains, a decision announced just weeks before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration. The Department of the Interior has initiated a process to withdraw 264,000 acres from leasing, which includes a two-year ban on new mineral leases during the approval process and a 90-day public comment period. This action is aimed at preserving the region's recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat. Additionally, Biden is preparing to issue a decree that would permanently ban new offshore oil and gas development in select U.S. coastal waters, aiming to protect sensitive marine areas. These moves are seen as efforts to lock in environmental protections before the transition to the Trump administration, which has expressed intentions to boost domestic energy production.