Celebrating When We Can: Judge Rules Against Biden, Restores Leasing on Federal Lands

June 17, 2021

In a blow to President Biden’s misguided efforts to unilaterally lock up federal lands from oil and gas exploration and development, a federal judge on Tuesday ordered that leasing programs must go forward.

“The omission of any rational explanation in cancelling the lease sales, and in enacting the Pause, results in this Court ruling that Plaintiff States also have a substantial likelihood of success on the merits of this claim,” wrote Louisiana-based, US District Judge Terry Doughty.

Thirteen states, including Louisiana and Alaska, had sued the Administration to overturn the Department of Interior’s actions, which had scuttled leasing sales already scheduled in states including Nevada, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming.

Power The Future applauds Judge Doughty for following the law, doing the right thing and re-establishing the leasing timetables. The Biden Administration’s heavy-handed tactics deserve this decision, as so many of them to-date have damaged families, communities and hope across America.

With hopes these lease sales can move forward, and jobs can be gained in responsible development of these lands, Power The Future will continue to advocate for the men and women who bring American energy to market.