The US Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has issued a Notice of Intent to begin drafting a programmatic environmental impact statement (PEIS) for a proposed offshore oil and gas lease sale in 2027. This action advances the administration's plan to offer exploration blocks in the Northern, Central, and Southern California planning areas.

Regulatory Process and Rationale

The PEIS is a requirement under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The administration is proceeding with this step to accelerate new drilling in federal waters, citing an "energy affordability crisis" in California. BOEM's acting director stated the move is part of a strategy to lower costs, strengthen energy security, and support American jobs, effectively ending a decades-long de-facto moratorium on offshore leasing in Pacific federal waters.

Next Steps and Opposition

The formal process will commence with the Notice's publication in the Federal Register, initiating a 30-day public comment period. BOEM will solicit input from tribal, state, and local governments, stakeholders, and the public. This federal action faces firm opposition from the state of California. The state's Attorney General has submitted a comment letter vowing to fight any such lease sales, citing threats to the state's natural resources and public health, despite California already hosting existing offshore production facilities.

Scope of Proposed Leasing

The administration's proposal includes six lease sales: three off southern California, two in the Central Planning area, and one in northern California waters.