President Biden protects the eastern Gulf of Mexico, safeguarding Florida’s iconic beaches, but western Gulf communities remain at risk
Healthy Gulf calls for comprehensive protections and a just transition to clean energy
On January 6, the Biden administration announced the withdrawal of the eastern Gulf of Mexico from future offshore oil and gas leasing under Section 12(a) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA). This critical action protects Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches and marine ecosystems, a step welcomed by Healthy Gulf. However, deep concerns remain about the lack of protections for the western Gulf of Mexico, where offshore drilling continues to pose severe risks to communities, ecosystems, and economies across the region.
“We’re excited and thankful that the Biden administration recognizes the immense value of Florida’s Gulf Coast,” said Martha Collins, Healthy Gulf Executive Director, who resides in St. Petersburg, FL. “From its white sandy beaches to its vibrant marine life, Florida’s Gulf Coast defines a way of life cherished by millions. Today’s decision ensures that industrial oil and gas operations will not tarnish this special area.”
Florida’s Gulf Coast is central to the state’s identity, tourism, and economy. Its pristine beaches draw millions of visitors annually, supporting local businesses and creating thousands of jobs. Protecting the eastern Gulf from drilling reflects the long-standing opposition from Floridians, who understand that offshore drilling endangers not only the environment but also the livelihoods tied to Florida’s coastal way of life.
“Drilling anywhere in the Gulf remains a threat to Florida. As the 2010 BP disaster demonstrated, oil spills know no boundaries, and their impact can devastate Florida’s beaches, economy, and quality of life,” said Healthy Gulf Coastal Organizer Christian Wagley, a Pensacola resident.
The western Gulf of Mexico has long been treated as a "sacrifice zone" for fossil fuel extraction, disproportionately burdening frontline communities with pollution and health risks. These communities bear the brunt of the environmental and public health tolls of offshore drilling, with air and water pollution contributing to asthma, cancer, and other chronic illnesses.
“We are disappointed that President Biden did not take this opportunity to withdraw additional areas in the Gulf of Mexico, particularly the risky deepwater regions and the western Gulf,” Collins added. “These areas remain vulnerable to catastrophic oil spills. We cannot allow any more communities to suffer the devastating consequences of offshore drilling.” And even with protections for the eastern Gulf, Florida remains vulnerable to more devastating hurricanes and other extreme weather events, all brought on by increased emissions that come with increased oil production.
A just transition to clean energy is critical to ensuring sustainable jobs and economic stability for Gulf communities while eliminating the harmful impacts of fossil fuel extraction. “Today’s decision is a step forward, but the work is far from over,” Collins concluded. “We must ensure the entire Gulf is free from the shadow of offshore drilling and move toward a future where clean, renewable energy supports the health, safety, and prosperity of all Gulf communities.”
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