The Biden administration is poised to enact regulations blocking oil and gas drilling across vast stretches of the Alaskan National Petroleum Reserve (NPR-A), a reserve designated for resource development by Congress.

These regulations, expected to be finalized just before Earth Day, would effectively restrict access to over 13 million acres of public land within the NPR-A.

Under the proposed rules, new leasing would be prohibited on 10.6 million acres, with additional measures aimed at periodic review and potential expansion of protected areas.

Interior Secretary Deb Haaland emphasized the urgency of protecting the fragile Arctic ecosystem amidst accelerated climate change.

The move aims to safeguard wildlife habitats and species, including caribou, in key areas like Teshekpuk Lake and Colville River, Fox News has reported.

While receiving support from Democrats and environmental advocates, the regulations face vehement opposition from Alaska officials, Indigenous groups, and energy industry representatives.

Critics argue that such restrictions jeopardize American energy independence and could potentially shift oil production to less favorable geopolitical environments.

Despite these concerns, the administration remains committed to its climate and conservation agenda, reflecting a broader push towards environmental protection and sustainability.

Written by B.C. Begley