Overturn the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management rule “Protection of Marine Archaeological Resources”

This joint resolution rescinds a requirement for lessees and operators to submit an archaeological report with any oil and gas exploration or development plan they submit to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) for approval of activities proposed on the Outer Continental Shelf. (An archaeological report identifies material remains of human life or activities that are at least 50 years old and that are of archaeological interest.)

Specifically, the joint resolution nullifies BOEM's final rule titled Protection of Marine Archaeological Resources and published on September 3, 2024.

Nullifying this rule requires BOEM to reinstate regulations that were previously in effect and authorized BOEM to require an archaeological report only if a BOEM regional director has reason to believe that an archaeological resource may be present in the lease area.

Summary by the Congressional Research Service (Public Law), via GovInfo BILLSTATUS. Text, sponsors and history on Congress.gov. Sponsor: Sen. Kennedy, John [R-LA].

Passed 221–202 on March 6, 2025 · On Passage

Democrats 9–201, Republicans 212–1

Source: Official roll call · Voteview

Joint Resolution Passed 54–44 on Feb. 25, 2025 · On the Joint Resolution

Democrats 3–42, Independents 0–2, Republicans 51–0

Source: Official roll call · Voteview