In a significant late-term action, President Joe Biden has issued an executive order halting new offshore drilling on over 625 million acres of federal waters, a decision that aligns with his administration's environmental goals.

This executive order bans new oil and gas exploitation in protected areas, in an effort to pre-empt President-elect Donald Trump's pro-drilling policies, as the Washington Examiner reports.

The Biden administration made the announcement two weeks before Trump is set to take office. This move, utilizing the 1953 Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, underscores Biden's commitment to defending coastal environments against potentially harmful drilling practices.

This significant decision coincided with Congress's meeting to certify the results of the 2024 presidential election, providing a symbolic juxtaposition to the incoming administration's approach to energy policy.

Focus on Coastline Protection and Environmental Goals

The executive order includes a sweeping ban on new drilling along the East Coast and the coasts of California, Oregon, and Washington state.

This also encompasses portions of Alaska's coast and the eastern Gulf of Mexico. However, it does not affect ongoing operations or leases currently in place. Crucially, drilling hubs such as the western and central Gulf of Mexico remain excepted from this ban.

Biden's decision aims to guard coastal communities and businesses from what he says are the ecological risks posed by offshore drilling. "My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses, and beachgoers have known for a long time," Biden stated, emphasizing his commitment to safeguarding these areas for future generations.

These actions, mirroring protective measures by former President Barack Obama, may face legal hurdles under the incoming administration.

Trump Vows to Reverse Drilling Ban

President-elect Trump and his team have criticized the executive order, promising to overturn these restrictions. In a statement to Hugh Hewitt, Trump voiced his intent: "I see...Biden has banned all oil and gas drilling...It's ridiculous. I'll unban it immediately."

This stance was echoed by Trump's spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt, who labeled the decision "disgraceful" and vowed that they would continue to push for increased drilling and lower gas prices.

The executive order has sparked both political and industry criticism. Erik Milito of the National Ocean Industries Association described it as a "strategic error," motivated more by political aims than scientific guidance or public demand.

Similarly, Mike Sommers of the American Petroleum Institute urged the new administration to reconsider this policy to harness the nation's offshore energy potential more fully.

Legal Precedent and Potential Challenges

The precedent for maintaining these protective measures was set by a 2019 U.S. district court ruling. This decision denied Trump's previous attempt to dismantle similar actions by Obama, clarifying that only Congress could rescind such an offshore drilling ban. This legal history suggests potential complexities in reversing Biden's decision, complicating the Trump administration's drilling aspirations.

Despite opposition, figures within environmental advocacy groups view the order as a significant victory. Joseph Gordon from Oceana expressed his satisfaction, declaring it "an epic ocean victory."

The executive order articulates Biden's dedication to addressing the climate crisis and champions a transition towards a clean energy future. In his words, "As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities...now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren."

Industry Concerns Regarding Economic Impact

Industry groups have voiced concerns regarding the economic implications of the ban. They argue it could jeopardize energy affordability and job creation. The American Petroleum Institute's Mike Sommers reinforced the importance of these resources for global stability and revenue generation, emphasizing a need to re-establish a more favorable federal leasing environment.

Ultimately, Biden's bold action marks a pivotal moment in U.S. energy policy. The executive order signifies a determined push against fossil fuel dependence, prioritizing long-term ecological preservation over short-term industrial gains.

However, the move sets the stage for potential conflict with the incoming Trump administration, juxtaposing two vastly different energy agendas as the nation prepares to transfer presidential power.