Democrats Abandon Drilling Ban, 09/24/08

Amid much consideration on the issue of offshore oil drilling in the United States, House Democrats have abandoned the moratorium on offshore oil drilling which has been stood since 1982 and been renewed every year since. Ending the moratorium could potentially open up the outer continental shelf for oil and natural gas exploration for the first time in 26 years. The end of the moratorium is being viewed by Republicans, who have challenged Democrats over the moratorium in light of high gasoline prices, as a major victory, however it is a victory with a catch. Drilling and exploration can not begin for approximately another year which leaves the issue in the hands of the next President elected. David R. Obey, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee stated that, "This will mean, quite frankly, that the result of the upcoming election will decide what our drilling policy will be." Senator John McCain, the Republican presidential candidate, is generally in favor of offshore drilling. Senator Barack Obama, the Democratic presidential candidate, is in favor of limited offshore drilling coupled with alternative energy initiatives. Environmental advocates from the Sierra Club, the oldest and largest environmental organization in the United States, have pledged to push to reinstate the ban next year.

See the article here. -V