Petroleum Association of Wyoming Urges Continuation of Oil and Natural Gas Permitting During Government Shutdown

Federal Mineral Program is the second largest source of revenue to the federal government

September 25, 2023

Casper, Wyo. –

The Petroleum Association of Wyoming (PAW), representing Wyoming’s primary economic driver, has urged the Biden Administration to ensure the uninterrupted flow of necessary permits for oil and natural gas production in the event of a government shutdown. This appeal comes on behalf of the thousands employed within the industry in Wyoming, the hundreds of thousands of Wyoming residents who depend on its vitality, and the millions of Americans concerned about escalating fuel prices.

Wyoming’s natural gas and oil industry, from exploration and production to processing, transportation and businesses services have contributed more than $2.7billion in tax revenues to the state of Wyoming – including $1.3 billion directly to Wyoming’s K-12 education system.

“As the second largest source of revenue to the federal government, after the IRS, the federal mineral program can fully fund its staffing and operation costs,” said PAW President Pete Obermueller. “Permitting successfully continued during the 2019 shutdown and any attempt to shutter the program now would be nothing more than Washington political theater that would harm Wyoming communities.”

As the second-highest producer of crude oil on federal lands in the nation, Wyoming plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the United States maintains an adequate supply of crude oil. This is especially crucial given the challenges posed by foreign cartels and the effects of supply shortages in the global oil market. With rising fuel costs for transportation, home heating, and cooking, largely attributed to limited global supply and U.S. government policies, it is imperative that domestic crude oil production remains unimpeded, even during periods of political gridlock resulting in government shutdowns.

To see PAW’s letter to Interior Secretary Haaland and BLM Director Stone-Manning, click here.

Representing Wyoming’s primary economic engine, the Petroleum Association of Wyoming, is the voice of the oil and gas industry. Our members produce 90 percent of Wyoming’s oil and gas, generating over $8 billion in economic activity and employing more than 16,000 of Wyoming’s hard-working men and women. PAW strives to foster mutually beneficial relationships with Wyoming’s landowners, businesses, and communities while promoting the sustainable production of Wyoming’s abundant resources.

The Petroleum Association of Wyoming provides a forum for education, interaction, and unified action for members, policymakers, and the public.