AOGA Statement on Western Louisiana District Court Decision to Halt Pause Federal Oil and Gas Leases

ANCHORAGE – June 16, 2021 – The Alaska Oil and Gas Association (AOGA) today commended U.S. District Judge Terry Doughty’s decision to halt the federal administration’s suspension of new oil and gas leases on federal lands and waters:

“AOGA is pleased at the Western Louisiana District Court’s decision to hold the Biden Administration to the letter of the law, which requires the administration to carry out federal lease sales under multiple statutes,” said Patrick Bergt, AOGA Regulatory and Legal Affairs Manager. “Alaska’s oil and gas industry is vital to the state’s economic well-being and is essential to Alaska’s post-pandemic recovery and quality of life. Federal lands continue to provide some of Alaska’s most promising opportunities for long-term oil and gas development. This court’s decision is one positive step towards ensuring future revenues to our state and local governments, as well as jobs for thousands of Alaskans.”

Oil production serves as Alaska’s economic engine, accounting for one-fourth of all jobs in the state and providing more than $2 billion in annual revenue to state and local governments.

AOGA is a professional trade association whose mission is to foster the long-term viability of the oil and gas industry in Alaska for the benefit of all Alaskans. More information about the organization can be found at www.aoga.org, on Facebook (AlaskaOilAndGas), Twitter (@AOGA) and Instagram (@alaskaoilgasassociation).

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