Sponsor Statement for SCR 20

"Relating to support of the State of Alaska’s Oil and Gas Leasing Program."

Sponsor: Senator Drue Pearce, Co-Chair Senate Finance Committee

In 1996 the Legislature created the State’s current Areawide Leasing Program with unanimous support by all 60 legislators and the Governor. The current program has been implemented successfully by the Department of Natural Resources and has provided a cost and labor savings approach to offering lease sales in areas of Alaska already subjected to extensive leasing.

The oil and gas industry operates in a very contentious environment in Alaska. The administration of programs authorized by the Legislature is continually under attack by special interest groups. By passing this resolution, the 20th Alaska State Legislature lends its unwavering support for this practical approach to leasing our State’s oil and gas lands. This resolution further emphasizes the benefits of this program for all Alaskans.