Biden Administration Delays Rollout of Offshore Drilling Plan

The Biden administration on June 30 delayed the rollout of a proposed five-year offshore oil and gas development plan that had been promised by the end of the month, according to sources.

Interior Department Secretary Deb Haaland in May had vowed to unveil the draft proposal ahead of the June 30 expiration of the current plan. The department will not be able to hold any offshore oil and gas lease sales until a new plan is finalized.

Briefings with officials meant to take place June 30 ahead of a public announcement were unexpectedly delayed, according to sources. The reason and length of the delay were unclear.

Interior would not comment.