Sw Louisiana News

Congressman Clay Higgins has expressed his support for President Trump's recent decision to lift restrictions on offshore drilling and commercial activities in the Gulf of America. The move reverses limitations imposed during the Biden administration.

"President Trump’s rescission of Biden-era limits on oil and gas operators is a win for American energy and South Louisiana’s economic prosperity," stated Congressman Higgins. He emphasized the importance of open transit in the Gulf for the maritime industry and ports, noting that President Trump is taking steps to ensure continued offshore energy operations and commercial activity along the Gulf Coast.

Previously, environmental groups had petitioned the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a year-round speed restriction zone in Rice's whale habitat across the Gulf. Although this petition was denied, subsequent measures by NOAA and the Bureau of Ocean Management (BOEM) included speed restrictions and nighttime closures for offshore energy operators.

In response to these measures, Congressman Higgins, alongside Congressman Neal Dunn, introduced legislation in August 2023. This legislation aimed to prevent NOAA from imposing vessel slowdown zones until it could be demonstrated that such actions would not harm supply chains or maritime commerce.