My friends at ATR reminded me that last night, September 30th, at midnight, the bans that have been in effect since 1982 on domestic shale oil and outer continential shelf drilling expired.

Don’t throw a parade just yet, though.

 ATR points out that in February of this year there were 487 leases issued in Alaska’s Chukchi Sea, which holds an estimated 15 billion barrels of oil, however – due to frivolous lawsuits – all 487 leases are delayed.

 Also, there are 748 leases between two major seas in Alaska, the Chukchi and Beaufort, and exploration in every single lease was legally challenged in May of this year. 

 You may want to give your senator or congressman a call on this.  And also feel free to give a shout out to congressional leaders Rep. Pelosi and Sen. Reid a call and tell them to pass expedited leasing, state profit sharing, and judicial review legislation.   Here’s their info:

 Sen Reid:

Reno, NV Office Contact: 

Phone: 775-686-5750

Washington DC Contact: 

Phone: 202-224-3542

 Rep. Pelosi:

San Francisco, CA Office Contact: 

Phone: (415) 556-4862

Washington, DC Office Contact : 

Phone: (202) 225-4965