The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has announced the completion of the first Gulf of America oil and gas lease sale under the Working Families Tax Cut law. This marks a significant move in U.S. energy policy, as it is the first offshore lease sale mandated by provisions from H.R. 1, known as the Working Families Tax Cuts law (WFTC), which became law on July 4, 2025. The WFTC was designed to increase both onshore and offshore leasing for oil, gas, and coal across the nation to encourage domestic energy production and reduce costs.
Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) commented on the development: “Since day one, the Trump administration and House Republicans have been committed to enacting policies that boost domestic energy production, create good-paying jobs and lower energy costs. Today’s successful lease sale is a giant leap forward to deliver on our promise to provide American families with greater access to affordable and reliable energy.”
Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources Chairman Pete Stauber (R-Minn.) said: “The Trump administration is delivering on its promises for the American people. I applaud President Trump and Secretary Burgum for delivering the first offshore oil and gas lease sale required under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Today’s $279 million in high bids proves that when we cut red tape and unleash American energy, companies invest, jobs are created, and families get lower costs at the pump. This is exactly what Minnesotans and Americans across the country expect—reliable, affordable energy made right here at home. I’m proud to support policies that put American Energy Dominance first.”
Representative Mike Ezell (R-Miss.) added: “The Gulf Coast depends on a clear, reliable energy strategy, and the Biden administration’s failed five-year plan has put our workers, our economy, and our national security at risk. I’m glad to see the Trump administration moving forward with a responsible leasing program that restores certainty, supports good-paying jobs and helps keep America energy independent. South Mississippi knows the value of American energy, and I’ll keep fighting for policies that put our people and our future first.”
According to BOEM's announcement regarding Lease Sale Big Beautiful Gulf 1—the official name of this event—the auction generated $279 million in high bids from participating companies.
The House Committee on Natural Resources played a key role in crafting legislative provisions leading up to this sale.
