A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Land Management relating to "Coastal Plain Oil and Gas Leasing Program Record of Decision".

# Summary of SJRES 91 **What the bill would do:** This joint resolution would overturn a December 2024 decision by the Bureau of Land Management that reduced available land for oil and gas drilling in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The 2024 decision cut the leasable area from 1.6 million acres down to 1.2 million acres to protect wildlife and natural resources. If passed, this resolution would reinstate the previous rules allowing drilling on the full 1.6 million acres, though companies would still be required to lease at least 400,000 acres under federal law. **Who it affects:** This primarily impacts oil and gas companies interested in Arctic drilling operations, Alaska's economy (which benefits from oil development), and environmental advocates concerned about protecting wildlife habitat in the refuge.

The decision also affects indigenous communities in Alaska and broader climate considerations, as Arctic oil development contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. **Current status and key details:** The resolution is currently in committee. It uses the Congressional Review Act, a procedure that allows Congress to overturn recent federal agency regulations with a simple majority vote. Sponsored by Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, the resolution reflects disagreement over how much of the Arctic refuge should be available for energy development versus conservation.