The Department of the Interior has designated the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) as the lead federal agency for overseeing the decommissioning of oil and gas platforms within the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary. This responsibility was previously held by the Department of Commerce.
The transition underscores BSEE’s role in managing offshore energy transitions safely and environmentally soundly. The transfer follows coordination between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), BSEE, and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to ensure a unified approach in this newly designated sanctuary.
"This is a strong example of interagency collaboration to streamline permitting and promote responsible energy development while honoring our commitment to environmental protection," said Acting Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management Adam Suess. "By leveraging BSEE’s regulatory expertise, we can ensure that offshore decommissioning activities within the sanctuary are conducted safely and efficiently."
BSEE's authority is derived from 30 CFR Part 250 Subpart Q, which outlines regulations for decommissioning offshore infrastructure. BSEE and NOAA will continue coordinating to identify shared mitigation measures under Section 304(d) of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act, aiming to reduce duplication, provide regulatory clarity, and protect sensitive marine environments.
"Today's announcement exemplifies our commitment to streamlining processes, reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens, and promoting energy production in alignment with strong environmental protections," said BSEE Principal Deputy Director Kenneth Stevens. "Early coordination between NOAA and BSEE will ensure clarity and efficiency, establishing agreed-upon mitigation measures and providing a streamlined regulatory pathway for permittees."
BSEE’s leadership aligns with Interior’s broader goals of advancing Energy Dominance while safeguarding America’s natural resources.
For more information on BSEE’s decommissioning activities, visit their Decommissioning page.
