Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, this new rule updates 50-year-old regulations that govern the exercise of non-Federal oil and gas rights within refuge units. The objectives of this new rule are to improve the effectiveness of the regulations so that they can protect refuge resources and values, and provide clarity for both operators and for the service. Updating this regulation avoids regulatory uncertainty, providing more clarity and guidance to oil and gas operators and refuge staff, instituting a simple process for compliance, and incorporating technological improvements in exploration and drilling technology, ensures that non-Federal oil and gas operations are conducted in a manner that avoids or minimizes impacts to refuge resources. This amendment prohibits the service from making positive advances and allowing non-Federal oil and gas operations to occur on refuge lands, while protecting these natural habitats for the benefit of future generations. I strongly oppose this amendment. I reserve the balance of my time.”