Senate reversal of BLM 2.0 rule strengthens regulatory certainty and U.S. energy security

WASHINGTON, March 7, 2017 – API Upstream and Industry Operations Group Director Erik Milito applauded the Senate vote to disapprove the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) final Planning 2.0 rule for developing domestic oil and natural gas resources on public lands and encouraged the Senate to vote to repeal the methane rule next. 

“This is an important step in creating certainty in the regulation of oil and gas in America, and restoring BLM land management for multiple uses as Congress intended,” said Milito. “Forward-looking energy policies will ensure the United States continues leading the world in the production and refining of oil and natural gas, and in the reduction of carbon emissions.

“A balanced approach to resource management planning is imperative. The checks and balances of Congress can help to foster oil and natural gas production, which benefits American consumers and strengthens our national security.   

“More than 80 percent of voters support increased development of U.S. oil and natural gas. We hope the Senate will build upon today's pro-jobs and pro-economic policy vote and repeal the harmful Methane and Waste Prevention rule next.”

API is the only national trade association representing all facets of the oil and natural gas industry, which supports 9.8 million U.S. jobs and 8 percent of the U.S. economy. API’s more than 625 members include large integrated companies, as well as exploration and production, refining, marketing, pipeline, and marine businesses, and service and supply firms. They provide most of the nation’s energy and are backed by a growing grassroots movement of more than 30 million Americans.