The administration of President Donald Trump on Thursday formalized the annulment of the regulation issued in 2024 by the government of Joe Biden that restricted oil and gas development in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska (NPR-A). With the rescission, the Executive restores access to more than 525,000 hectares (1,297,000 acres) previously closed to activity, in the largest stretch of undisturbed public land in the country.
The decision, which will be formally published in the Federal Register, restores the possibility of leasing and exploration in vast areas that the Biden administration had blocked in the name of "environmental protection." The Trump administration argues that the measure will help boost the economy of the North Slope and strengthen national energy security.
"By rescinding the 2024 rule, we're following President Trump's direction to unlock Alaska's energy potential, create jobs for North Slope communities, and reinforce American energy security," said Secretary of the Interior, Doug Burgum, in a statement. According to the administration, the removal of the restrictions restores a "common-sense" approach to the management of federal resources.
Supporters of the decision argue that the NPR-A, created in 1923 by President Warren Harding as a strategic fuel reserve for the Navy, should continue fulfilling its historic role as a source of energy supply.
They point out that the limitations imposed by the previous government hindered investments and reduced job opportunities in a region where the oil industry has been an economic pillar for decades.
