Bill > HR2673

This bill aims to protect specific coastal areas off Florida from oil and natural gas exploration, development, and production by amending the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Specifically, the bill prohibits the Secretary of the Interior from issuing leases or authorizations for oil and gas activities in three distinct marine regions: the Eastern Gulf of Mexico (as referenced in a previous 2006 energy security act), the southern portion of the South Atlantic Planning Area (located south of 30 degrees 43 minutes North Latitude), and the Straits of Florida Planning Area, as defined in the 2024-2029 National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Proposed Final Program. The bill importantly includes a provision that preserves existing lease rights for any authorizations issued before the enactment of this legislation, meaning current oil and gas leases would not be automatically invalidated. By restricting future oil and gas exploration in these environmentally sensitive coastal regions, the bill seeks to protect Florida's marine ecosystems, coastal environments, and potentially support local tourism and fishing industries that could be negatively impacted by offshore drilling activities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2673/all-info