Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management relating to "Protection of Marine Archaeological Resources".

# Summary of HJRES 62 **What It Would Do:** This bill would overturn a rule created by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) regarding protection of underwater archaeological sites. The rule, finalized in September 2024, requires oil and gas companies operating on the U.S. continental shelf to submit archaeological reports identifying potential underwater artifacts and historical sites before getting approval for exploration or drilling projects.

If passed, the bill would eliminate this requirement, meaning companies would only need to submit such reports if a BOEM official specifically suspects archaeological resources are present in their lease area—reverting to the previous standard. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects oil and gas companies operating offshore, as well as the federal agencies that oversee these operations. It also has implications for the protection of underwater cultural heritage, including shipwrecks, submerged settlements, and other historical artifacts on the ocean floor. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives.