CONGRESS FOR VOTERS

DemocratBill · S. 1445· Senate(119-S-1445)

Stop Arctic Ocean Drilling Act of 2025

Rep. Merkley
Age: 70 years
Oregon
Introduced
4/10/2025
Last activity
4/10/2025 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Sponsored by
Jeff Merkley
Cosponsors
Democrat - 5Republican - 0
Energy
  1. Introduced
  2. In Committee

What this bill would do

The "Stop Arctic Ocean Drilling Act of 2025" aims to prohibit drilling in the Arctic Ocean. It seeks to amend the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act by adding a new subsection. This new rule would prevent the Secretary of the Interior from issuing or extending leases for oil, natural gas, or other minerals. These restrictions would apply specifically to Arctic areas of the outer Continental Shelf. The bill defines "Arctic" based on the meaning provided in the Arctic Research and Policy Act of 1984.

Yes· 3 of 10

  • Does this reduce how much oil, gas and coal is produced?+9

    The bill directly mandates a halt to new fossil fuel production in specified Arctic areas.

  • Does this better protect air, water and wildlife?+8

    The bill provides significant protection for the Arctic ecosystem by prohibiting industrial drilling.

  • Does this cut the pollution that drives climate change?+6

    By preventing Arctic oil and gas extraction, the bill helps reduce long-term carbon emissions.

The opposite· 3 of 9

  • Would business owners be better off under this?-3

    Energy and resource companies will see a reduction in available business opportunities.

  • Is this likely to lower the price at the pump?-2

    Limiting future oil production could exert upward pressure on long-term energy prices.

  • Is this likely to create jobs?-2

    The prohibition on drilling and resource development may limit potential job opportunities in the energy sector.