Yesterday, the Department of the Interior gave conditional approval to allow Shell to move forward with developing Alaska’s offshore areas. Chairman Rob Bishop (UT-01) released the following statement.  

“The Obama Administration’s decision to approve Shell’s exploratory plan is finally a sign of its affirmation of the industry’s safe record in offshore development. Government officials and regulators have confirmed that developing offshore resources in the Arctic, Atlantic, and Gulf of Mexico is absolutely safe. Yet, this is just an initial step in what will be many more hurdles for Shell and the entire offshore industry.  Many barriers remain, most notably the barrage of regulations contained in the Arctic rule announced by the Administration in January.  As we look for more opportunities to expand responsible energy development offshore, these barriers must be overcome. 

“The Committee will do its part to help address these challenges through oversight of the Administration and by greater engagement with both states and the private sector, which is the driving force behind innovations in safety and production capabilities. I endorse this first step and hope it means future cooperation between Congress and the Administration.” 

The Committee on Natural Resources held a hearing last month that featured industry innovations in safety in the offshore, and will be holding an oversight hearing to examine the implications of the Arctic Rule next month.