U.S. to resume oil, gas drilling on public land despite Biden campaign pledge

Washington, Apr. 16 (BNA): The Biden administration on Friday said it has resumed plans for oil and gas development on federal lands, a move that could break a pledge Joe Biden made while campaigning for president.

The plan calls for the government to lease fewer acres for drilling than initially proposed, charge steeper royalties to oil and gas companies, and assess the climate impact of developing the acreage. Reuters said.

The proposal was quickly denounced by several environmental groups, with one calling it “a reckless failure of climate leadership.” Oil industry groups praised the move but said it did not go far enough.

WHQ