On the recordSeptember 11, 2019
We do not have any concerns with the amendment and do not believe it undermines the underlying legislation. Furthermore, it is our firm belief that, if the Department of the Interior were to consult with the Defense Department, they would find H.R. 1941 poses no national security risk to the United States. The underlying bill does not affect a single producing offshore lease, and oil and gas companies now have tremendous opportunities for new offshore development in the United States. Let's be clear: The United States offers nearly 80 million acres in the Gulf of Mexico for new leasing every year, and companies now hold only 13 million acres of the Gulf under lease, which means that 72 percent of the acres that have been offered are not yet developed. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.
