Governor Gordon Criticizes Proposed BLM Rule that Would Negatively Impact Wyoming Energy Producers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 20, 2023

CONTACT: Michael Pearlman, Communications Director

Michael.Pearlman@wyo.gov

 

Governor Gordon Criticizes Proposed BLM Rule that Would Negatively Impact Wyoming Energy Producers

 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. –  Governor Mark Gordon has issued the following statement criticizing a proposed rule from the Bureau of Land Management that would negatively impact Wyoming energy producers. The Governor’s statement follows:

It has been my experience that when Washington, DC talks about balanced development as we transition to clean energy, it is merely code for placing additional burdens on the fossil fuel industry. Today the oil and gas industry is that target. The Bureau of Land Management’s proposed rule shows a disregard for the protections already in place in Wyoming for wildlife, cultural and historic sites and reclamation of oil and gas wells. 

Wyoming's energy industry is composed of many smaller operators who are committed to responsible development. Huge bonding requirements – regardless of the type and location of wells – piled on top of increased leasing costs and other fees, may very well make it impossible to operate. Unnecessary costs to producers will result in less oil and gas for consumers across the nation and less revenue for Wyoming and her citizens. Revenue from the oil and gas industry has funded education, highway maintenance, law enforcement, mental health programs, and other vital services for Wyoming’s people. 

We have just seen major utilities request substantial rate increases based upon their argument of past increases to the price of oil and gas. Yet this Administration is doing everything it can to make things worse for those struggling to pay their bills.

Wyoming has a long history of working with companies to identify appropriate bonds and fees to assure that should a well be orphaned, that well will be appropriately plugged and the site reclaimed. The Administration should look to Wyoming as a leader in idle and orphan well management and leave this work to states. Burdensome federal regulation is not the answer.

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