Trump Administration Proposes Major Expansion of Offshore Oil Drilling in Protected Coastal Waters

Nov 21, 2025 02:30 pm CST

The Trump administration has unveiled an ambitious plan to expand offshore oil drilling, proposing up to 34 lease sales including in previously protected waters near Florida, California, and Alaska. Environmental groups and coastal state leaders are preparing challenges, citing risks to marine ecosystems, tourism, and fishing industries. The proposal would replace Biden-era restrictions and open over 1 billion acres to energy exploration, though it faces significant regulatory hurdles and public review before implementation.