DISQUS

WebPixie · 1 year ago

Maybe I am a bit uninformed, or maybe misinformed. I thought the Congressional moratorium on drilling was something that stays there until Congress repeals it. I didn't think it was something they had to put into the budget each year. How can a moratorium be a budget item? It doesn't seem to be the kind of thing the government would have to provide funds for. Help?

Karoli · 1 year ago

It doesn't have anything to do with the budget, but resolutions and other business are often attached to the budget.

The key here is that Congress had to agree to the executive order banning offshore drilling and did so by caveat. Now that the order has been lifted Congress need not do anything to open those leases up to the oil companies.

The absence of action is action.

WebPixie · 1 year ago

So does this mean that the moratorium WILL be lifted UNLESS a resolution is attached to the budget that calls for what amounts to a NEW moratorium?

Thanks. Your ability to direct readers to credible references is much appreciated. If it isn't by some, it should be. Keep up the great work!

Karoli · 1 year ago

Hi WebPixie,

Yes, that's what it means. Congress had to affirm the executive order. Now that the executive order has been lifted, Congress need not do anything to open the door.

Heavy, deep sigh.

Edgar · 1 year ago

Hello. My name is Edgar and I'm an editor at OpposingViews.com, the debate website. Since we both cover energy and environmental issues, I thought I'd drop you a note. I would've e-mailed you but I couldn't find an address.
See, we're currently having a discussion about whether or not the U.S. should allow offshore oil drilling. You can see it here:
http://www.opposingviews.com/questions/should-t...
Although vetted experts are the ones doing the debating, anyone can contribute by choosing a side and posting comments about the experts' arguments.
Check it out and, if you have the time, let me know what you think at eacosta@opposingviews.com
Thanks!