Central ND News

Senator John Hoeven expressed strong opposition to a recent decision made by the Biden administration, which will impact oil and gas leasing on federal lands. The Senator, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, voiced his concerns following the finalization of a rule by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) that is set to restrict leasing activities and increase energy production costs.

“This rule continues the Biden administration’s regulatory onslaught that is handcuffing our domestic energy producers, driving up energy costs and making our nation less safe,” stated Senator Hoeven, highlighting the potential negative consequences of the new rule.

The Senator further emphasized the impact of the rule on states like North Dakota, where federal control over surface acreage and mineral rights could hinder the development of valuable oil and gas resources. He noted, “...this rule will limit the development of our abundant, taxpayer-owned oil and gas resources, increasing costs for producers and consumers."

Senator Hoeven also outlined his commitment to challenging the rule, stating, "We’ll work to stop this rule and force President Biden to reverse course on his regulatory agenda so that we can take the handcuffs off our domestic energy producers."

In response to the regulatory changes, Senator Hoeven had previously introduced the Spur Permitting of Underdeveloped Resources (SPUR) Act in collaboration with other lawmakers. The legislation aims to address fee increases imposed by the Biden administration on the development of federal energy resources.

The Senator's efforts reflect a broader concern about the potential implications of the BLM rule on energy production and consumer costs.