BLM Extends Comment Period on Proposed Rule to Modernize Oil and Gas Regulations and Replace Onshore Order 3
Organization:
BLM Office:
Media Contact:
In response to requests from the public, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has extended the public comment period for a recently proposed rule that would update and replace Onshore Oil and Gas Order Number 3 (Order 3) until October 9, 2015.The BLM released the proposed rule (Onshore Oil and Gas Operations; Federal and Indian Oil and Gas Leases; Site Security) initially for a 60-day comment period, which runs until September 11, 2015. But, the BLM is now extending the comment period an additional 28 days to provide the public with an opportunity to review and comment on the draft rule.This proposed, updated regulation is intended to ensure accurate measurement, accountability, and royalty payments for oil and gas production from Federal and Indian leases. Order 3 sets minimum standards for ensuring that oil and gas produced from leases overseen by the BLM are properly and securely handled. Order 3 has not been updated since 1989, and no longer reflects modern industry operations or technology.The BLM determined that updates to these standards were necessary based on its experience with oil and gas measurement in the field and the changes in technology and industry operations that have occurred since Order 3 was issued.The proposed rule may be viewed online at: www.regulations.gov. Put "RIN 1004-AE15" into the search bar.The BLM encourages the public to submit comments through one of the following methods:- Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions at this Web site.- Mail: U.S. Department of the Interior, Director (630), Bureau of Land Management, Mail Stop 2134 LM, 1849 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20240 Attention: Regulatory Affairs.- Personal/messenger delivery: Bureau of Land Management, 20 M. Street SE, Room 2134 LM, Attention: Regulatory Affairs, Washington, DC 20003.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.