Ten years ago Virginia started down the road of lifting the federal government’s moratorium on offshore drilling.
Late last week, the Obama Administration announced it was going to allow seismic testing off the Atlantic coast so that energy companies could use updated technology to determine just how much oil and natural gas is available.
Critical to finally realizing the economic benefits to drilling offshore is the voice of the American people.
Right now, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management is accepting comments for the 2017-2022 Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program.
Now, above all other times, is when our voice will be heard on this issue.
Please go to http://www.regulations.gov and enter BOEM-2014-0059 and enter your Comment at “Requests for Information: Preparation of the 2017-2022 Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program.”
Tell BOEM we need jobs, lower energy prices, and energy independence. Mention that studies show Virginia expects 16,000 jobs, $400 million per year in revenue to state and local budgets, and the need to diversify the economy of Hampton Roads.
You can also mention that there is wide, bipartisan support for safe, environmentally responsible access of our American natural resources. US Senators Mark Warner, Tim Kaine, and Jim Webb all support offshore drilling as does our current governor – Terry McAuliffe.
Ten years is a long time but not if that’s what it takes to get it right.
The wait will only have been worth it if offshore drilling happens and we create thousands of jobs here in the Commonwealth.
Please submit your comment right now.
The deadline of July 31st is fast approaching. After that, your voice cannot be heard on this important issue.
Do it now.
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