S.J.Res. 11 · 119th Congress · Senate
A joint resolution 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 Mar
Introduced 2025-02-04 · Sponsored by Sen. Kennedy, John [R-LA] (R-LA) · Last updated 2026-03-31
Last action (2025-03-14): Became Public Law No: 119-3.
Summary
Gets rid of a rule that required offshore oil and gas companies to survey for shipwrecks and other underwater archaeological sites before drilling on the Outer Continental Shelf. The industry said the surveys added delays and costs to projects that already go through extensive permitting. Critics said the rule protected irreplaceable historical artifacts on the ocean floor.
The Good
Reduces permitting delays for offshore energy projects
The BOEM rule required oil and gas operators on the Outer Continental Shelf to submit archaeological reports for areas of potential effects. Industry argued these assessments added time and cost to the permitting process, delaying energy production without proportionate benefit.
Existing laws already protect significant archaeological sites
The National Historic Preservation Act and other statutes already require consideration of impacts to cultural resources. Industry groups argued the BOEM rule duplicated existing requirements rather than filling a genuine regulatory gap.
The Bad
Removes protections for underwater cultural heritage
The ocean floor contains shipwrecks, Indigenous artifacts, and other archaeological resources. The BOEM rule was the primary mechanism ensuring these resources are identified and protected before drilling and pipeline construction disturb the seabed.
Once destroyed, marine archaeological sites cannot be recovered
Unlike some environmental impacts that can be mitigated or restored, destruction of archaeological sites is permanent. Without pre-activity surveys, operators may unknowingly destroy irreplaceable cultural resources during drilling or infrastructure installation.
Vote Record
Senate, 2025-02-25
Passed Congress.gov — Senate Roll Call #92
Senate vote by state
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