WEEKLY UPDATE ON WESTERN CAUCUS MEMBERS TAKING ACTION FOR RURAL AMERICA

WESTERN CAUCUS REACTS TO

THE ANWR DECISION

Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Dan Newhouse (WA-04) and Congresswoman Mary Peltola (AK at-large) expressed disappointment at the Biden Administration’s proposed restrictions on oil and gas development in Alaska’s North Slope, including lease cancellations in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR).

Chairman Newhouse criticized it as part of President Biden’s stance against American energy development, contrasting it with the administration’s request to OPEC for more crude oil.

Peltola expressed frustration over the lease reversals in ANWR and emphasized the need to consider the impact on Inupiat North Slope communities. As the at-large Alaskan Representative, she called for continued advocacy for Alaska’s natural resource exploration, permitting reform, and predictable timelines from the federal government.

Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (WY), Vice Chair Dan Sullivan (AK), and Member Senator Lisa Murkowski (AK) also released a statement in regard to ANWR.

Senator Murkouski stated “It’s not hard to predict what will happen as they allow the world’s worst actors to enrich themselves, while punishing Alaska. Fewer jobs at home, more imports for California, and higher prices for everyone.”

WESTERN CAUCUS UPDATES

Senate Western Caucus Chairman Emeritus Steve Daines (MT) has advocated for active forest management by pushing for the use of new authorities, such emergency authority for expedited projects in high-risk fire areas. 

Senator Daines passed a resolution for Great Outdoors Month and promotes legislation to complete the Continental Divide Trail, improve public access, and manage wilderness study areas. He also co-introduced the Stop the Spread of Invasive Mussels Act to combat invasive aquatic species and support hydropower project.