NOIA Statement U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit Ruling on Lease Sale 261

For Immediate Release: Tuesday, November 14, 2023
NOIA Contact: jwilliams@nullnoia.org

NOIA Statement U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit Ruling on Lease Sale 261

Washington, D.C. – National Ocean Industries Association President Erik Milito issued the following statement after U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit issued the following order, dismissing the appeal against the Lease Sale 261 preliminary injunction:

“The court's ruling is a necessary and positive response to an unwarranted decision by the Biden administration. The removal of millions of highly prospective acres, along with the imposition of excessive restrictions, resulted from a voluntary agreement with activist groups that sidestepped legal processes, disregarded scientific considerations, and neglected public input.

"The escalating geopolitical tensions and instability in various oil-producing regions emphasize the critical role of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. To fortify our national security stance, it is essential to champion strength and support U.S. oil and gas production. This stands in contrast to considering eased sanctions on Venezuela and Iran, actions that could contribute to heightened global unrest.

"Fully leveraging America's energy production capabilities, especially our offshore resources, is imperative to address some of our nation's most pressing challenges."

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About NOIA
The National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) represents and advances a dynamic and growing offshore energy industry, providing solutions that support communities and protect our workers, the public and our environment.