FL focusing on GoM drilling resolution

Florida is searching for some permanency to its offshore drilling issues some - 80 years of the oil and gas industry’s existence off both the Gulf and Atlantic coasts – and the Trump administration’s decision to expand O&G drilling across Florida and U.S. waters. The state House’s latest resolution (HR 319), which focuses mainly on the Gulf of Mexico, is using the federal Gulf of Mexico Security Act of 2006 as a foundation to extend an already-passed moratorium on oil exploration east of the Military Mission Line. The moratorium expires in 2022. HR 319 would ask the federal government for an indefinite extension. The line is part of the Gulf of Mexico Range Complex, which stretches from the Florida panhandle to Key West. The range is home to the largest military testing and training range in America. HR 319 would result in a loss of range areas and possible relocation of aircrafts and bases to other unrestricted range areas. Rep. Mel Ponder (R-Destin), one of the bill’s sponsors, fears encroachment on the MML would have a negative impact on Florida’s economy. The military is the third or fourth largest contributor to the state’s economy. There are more than 775,000 jobs and an $80B economic impact. “To us in northwest Florida, it’s actually 65 percent of our economy. It’s a big deal,” he said. Florida Petroleum counsel executive director David Mica claims HR 319 “can have an effect on our American energy security.” Mica asserts that the industry works hand-in-glove with the military on drilling permits, and that creating an indefinite moratorium gives industry another hoop to jump through. Ponder remains firm. The Range Complex is an “irreplaceable” asset to the country, he said. HR 319 passed its final committee vote Jan. 24, and is headed to the House floor for discussion and vote. (Source: WLRM-Miami Public Radio 01/25/18)