PAW Statement on Temporary Suspension of Federal Leasing and Permitting

PAW committed to protecting livelihoods of Wyoming’s hard working men and women in the natural gas and oil industry

January 21, 2021

Casper, Wyo. – The Petroleum Association of Wyoming (PAW) released the following statement today following Acting Department of Interior Secretary Scott de la Vega’s approval of a sixty day Temporary Suspension of all Leasing and Permitting of oil and natural gas on federal lands:

“Since the November election, we have known that executive orders aimed at hampering natural gas and oil production on federal lands would come fast and furious in the first days of the Biden administration. Yesterday’s 60-day suspension of all federal leases and permits to drill is just the start. It is unfortunate that on its first day in office, the new administration would implement policies that will slow Wyoming’s economic recovery. According to a recent University of Wyoming Study, the state stands to lose $300 million in tax revenue each year and more than 15,000 jobs annually through 2025 if this ban becomes a long term policy. PAW will work to protect the livelihoods of Wyoming’s hard working men and women in the natural gas and oil industry using all legal means at our disposal.”

About PAW: 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 $5 billion in economic activity and employing more than 19,000 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.