Bill Bush | 202.682.8069 | bushw@api.org
WASHINGTON, August 16, 2010 – API Upstream Director Erik Milito said that the announcement from the Department of the Interior that it will require more extensive environmental reviews for deepwater projects (limiting use of categorical exclusions) could delay development and job creation:
“We’re concerned the change could add significantly to the department’s workload, stretching the timeline for approval of important energy development projects with no clear return in environmental protection. Environmental review of offshore operations under existing rules is extensive, and decisions on categorical exclusions, which are intended to avoid repetitive analysis, require review.
“We’re in favor of targeted changes to regulations that enhance safety and environmental protection, provided the changes allow for the efficient moving forward of energy development and job creation.”
Updated: August 16, 2010