Trump Reverses Biden's Oil Restrictions in Alaska

On his first day in office, President Donald Trump signed multiple executive orders aimed at reversing restrictions on oil and gas development in Alaska and the Arctic, specifically targeting actions taken by former President Biden. Trump's orders rescinded over 78 executive actions, including a 2023 ban on oil drilling in 16 million acres of the Arctic and prohibitions against drilling in various federal waters. The former administration's restrictions were intended to address environmental and economic concerns, which drew mixed reactions from local leaders and conservation groups. Trump emphasized his commitment to expanding U.S. energy production, declaring a national energy emergency and signaling plans to facilitate projects like the Keystone XL pipeline. There are questions about the legality of Trump's ability to reverse Biden's protections, particularly regarding offshore drilling regulations established under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Overall, these actions reflect a significant shift in U.S. energy policy, prioritizing fossil fuel development over environmental safeguards.