Trump Administration Bars Oil Drilling Off Florida After Governor's Plea

"WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump’s administration will not allow drilling for oil and gas off the coast of Florida after urging from the state’s governor, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said on Tuesday.

“I support the governor’s position that Florida is unique and its coasts are heavily reliant on tourism as an economic driver,” Zinke said in a statement. “As a result of discussion with Governor (Rick) Scott and his leadership, I am removing Florida from consideration for any new oil and gas platforms.”

The Trump administration last week proposed opening nearly all U.S. offshore waters to oil and gas drilling, a move aimed at boosting domestic energy production and which sparked protests from coastal states, environmentalists and the tourism industry."

Eric Beech and Eric Walsh report for Reuters January 9, 2018.

SEE ALSO:

"Trump Administration Drops Florida From Offshore Drilling Plan" (New York Times)

"Kaine: 'Wonder Why' Virginia Gov Didn't Get Same Drilling Commitment As Fla. Gov" (The Hill)

"Cuomo Asks Zinke To Remove New York From Offshore Drilling Expansion" (The Hill)

"Dem: Courts Will Strike Down Zinke Position On Florida Drilling" (The Hill)

"California AG Calls On Zinke To Remove State From Offshore Drilling Expansion" (The Hill)

"Keep Oil Drilling Rigs Off Coasts, Senators Tell Interior Secretary" (Seattle Post-Intelligencer)