To nullify the Presidential memoranda on the withdrawal of certain areas of the outer Continental Shelf from oil or natural gas leasing.

# HR 408 Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** HR 408 would overturn two presidential orders issued in January 2025 that blocked offshore oil and natural gas drilling in certain federal waters. Specifically, it would reverse protections for areas in the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and Bering Sea by allowing the federal government to resume issuing drilling leases in these regions. The bill would restore the government's ability to lease these ocean areas to energy companies for oil and gas exploration and production. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily impact energy companies interested in offshore drilling, as it reopens federal waters to potential leasing opportunities.

It would also affect coastal communities, environmental groups, and the fishing industry—some of whom support offshore development for economic reasons, while others oppose it due to environmental and safety concerns. Taxpayers could be affected depending on revenue generated from lease sales. **Current Status:** HR 408 is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full vote in the House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Republican Representative Jodey Arrington from Texas.