Doug Burgum, Interior Secretary | https://www.facebook.com/photo.php
The Department of the Interior has announced plans to rescind a 2024 rule that imposed new restrictions on oil and gas development in Alaska's National Petroleum Reserve. The proposed action aims to align regulations with the Naval Petroleum Reserves Production Act of 1976, restore the original intent for managing the area, and remove obstacles to energy production.
Officials from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Department concluded that the 2024 rule, titled "Management and Protection of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska," exceeded statutory authority under the Naval Petroleum Reserves Production Act. They determined it conflicted with the Act’s purpose and created unnecessary barriers to energy development.
The National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska spans approximately 23 million acres on Alaska's North Slope. Congress designated this area for oil and gas exploration as part of national energy security policy following the oil crisis in the 1970s. The BLM manages this reserve under an act mandating competitive leasing while protecting surface resources.
"Congress was clear: the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska was set aside to support America’s energy security through responsible development," stated Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. He added that the 2024 rule prioritized obstruction over production, affecting domestic resource harnessing at a critical time for American energy independence.
The 2024 rule expanded procedural requirements and presumed against oil and gas activity across about 13 million acres known as "Special Areas." Operators had to prove minimal or no adverse effects on surface resources, which officials argue lack basis in law and hinder effective leasing programs.
This move aligns with Executive Orders issued by President Trump in January 2025—E.O. 14153 “Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential” and E.O. 14156 “Declaring a National Emergency.” These orders stress reversing policies that restrict domestic energy development, especially in Alaska.
If rescinded, BLM would revert to pre-May 7, 2024 regulations, guiding responsible development while protecting wildlife, subsistence, and surface values through an Integrated Activity Plan process. The proposal will be published in the Federal Register for a 60-day public comment period.
