The U.S. House recently approved a bill aimed at supporting domestic energy production, particularly in response to concerns raised by an indigenous community residing in the Alaska North Slope. Despite being co-sponsored by a Democrat from Alaska, she did not vote for her own bill. However, the bill received backing from five Democrats, including two from Texas who are strong proponents of the U.S. oil and natural gas industry.
This legislative action follows numerous measures taken by the Biden administration against the energy sector, with one such action involving the Department of the Interior restricting development on over half of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), directly impacting the Iñupiat North Slope community.
The indigenous Iñupiat community, who have inhabited the Alaska North Slope region for centuries, argue that the Biden administration’s decision to restrict North Slope production has disregarded their input and concerns. They believe that the administration has failed to engage with them adequately and have overlooked the impact on their communities and economy.
In response to these challenges, U.S. Reps. Mary Sattler Peltola and Pete Stauber introduced the “Alaska’s Right to Produce Act,” which aims to reverse the rule change that restricted production and establish an oil and gas leasing program in the Coastal Plain. This bill was passed by the House with a vote of 214-199, despite Peltola voting “present.”
The indigenous communities in the North Slope are advocating for economic development projects to secure their long-term economic stability. They argue that resource development infrastructure plays a crucial role in funding essential services such as education, healthcare, and wildlife management in their communities.
Following the House’s passage of the bill, members of the Iñupiat community expressed gratitude for Congress’s efforts to protect their rights and advance their self-determination. They hope that the new law will prevent further isolation of their community and preserve their cultural heritage in the face of regulatory challenges.
However, the bill now moves to the Democratic-controlled Senate, where its chances of passing are uncertain.
