Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

The U.S. Department of Justice settled two lawsuits challenging Biden-era restrictions on oil and gas leases in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, agreeing the 2024 program violated the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The settlement, which dismissed cases from Alaska and the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority, affirmed Trump’s 2017 policy requiring lease sales in the refuge’s coastal plain.

Two corporations bid on a handful of leases during Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge oil and gas lease sale, with Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority and Hex Energy winning bids covering 72,000 acres. The sale faced criticism for low industry interest and environmental concerns, while supporters highlight potential economic benefits and resource development.

Two corporations bid on a handful of leases during the latest oil and gas lease sale in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, described by critics as showing limited interest. The sale could still enable future development in the region.

The US is set to hold an oil and gas lease sale in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, with opponents citing climate change impacts and prior lack of industry interest, while supporters argue it could boost production and jobs. Conservation groups have urged major companies like ConocoPhillips and Hilcorp to avoid participating due to legal risks and public opposition, though the Trump administration has mandated lease sales in multiple Alaskan regions. The USGS estimates the refuge's coastal plain may hold significant oil reserves, but drilling remains inactive there.

The Trump administration has scheduled a drilling auction in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska for June 5. The decision has sparked controversy due to the environmental sensitivity of the area.