Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy has introduced the Offshore Energy Security Act of 2025, a bill that mandates the U.S. Department of the Interior to conduct two offshore oil and gas lease sales annually for a decade. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Katie Britt, Tommy Tuberville, Roger Wicker, and Cindy Hyde-Smith.

Dr. Cassidy criticized the current administration's approach: "The Biden administration shut down offshore energy development. 2024 was the first time in over 50 years there was not a single lease sale held in the Gulf," he stated.

Senator Britt emphasized Alabama's role: "It is past time to unleash American energy dominance. Alabama’s Gulf Coast plays an essential role in fueling our nation."

Senator Tuberville commented on energy policy: "For the last four years, the Biden administration has waged war on American energy."

Senator Hyde-Smith highlighted economic impacts: "Offshore energy production in the Gulf of Mexico is vital to our economic and national security."

The bill also includes provisions on acreage, lease terms, environmental reviews, and protection against litigation delays. It codifies President Trump's memorandum to exclude leasing in the Eastern Gulf.

The proposal is backed by several industry groups including API and NOIA. Holly Hopkins from API remarked on its importance for jobs and local economies: “Energy development on federal waters is critical not only to meeting current and future energy demand but also for supporting American jobs.”

NOIA President Erik Milito noted its urgency due to recent drilling bans: “Speedy passage of this legislation has never been more critical with the largest offshore drilling ban in U.S. history enacted just weeks ago by President Biden.”

LMOGA President Tommy Faucheux stressed regional benefits: “This legislation not only secures our national energy independence but also sustains the Gulf South economy.”

Kevin Bruce from GEA praised Cassidy’s leadership: “Senator Cassidy recognizes the critical need for predictable and regular lease sales.”

CEA Vice President Kaitlin Hammons underscored consumer impact: “This is a critical step forward in strengthening American energy security at a time when families, small business, and manufacturers need stable and affordable energy.”