Pallone Welcomes Atlantic Exclusion from Trump Offshore Drilling Plan

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Ranking Member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, today welcomed news that the Trump Administration’s draft 2026–2031 National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program does not include the Atlantic Ocean. The exclusion comes after Pallone led more than 100 House Democrats earlier this month in a letter urging the Administration to remove the Atlantic from consideration, warning that new drilling would threaten coastal economies, marine ecosystems, and military readiness.

“New Jerseyans can breathe a sigh of relief today. The Trump Administration’s new offshore drilling plan is out, and the Atlantic Ocean is not in it. Earlier this year, the Atlantic was on the table until I led more than 100 House Democrats in a letter demanding its removal. New Jersey’s coastal economy and marine life cannot be put at risk by seismic blasting or the threat of a single spill,” said Pallone. “And while the Atlantic was spared, communities in California and along the Florida Gulf still face unacceptable risks. Their concerns must be heard.”

Read Pallone’s November 4, 2025 letter here.