The Biden administration has announced restrictions on oil and gas leasing on more than 13 million acres of an Alaskan petroleum reserve to conserve land valuable to Alaska Native people and important fish and wildlife, sparking protests from Republican lawmakers.
Key Points
13 million acres of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska affected by the restrictions
New rules won't impact current leases but will ensure maximum protection for Special Areas
Biden administration emphasizes commitment to protecting special places and communities
Pros
Conservation of land valuable to Alaska Native people and important fish and wildlife
Protection of significant resource values in the western Arctic
Support for subsistence uses and needs for Alaska Native communities
Cons
Republican lawmakers protesting the move as 'illegal'
Concerns about impact on America's energy production and national security