Scalise meets with new Director of Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Steve Scalise today met with Rear Admiral James Watson, the new director of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), which regulates the oil and gas industry. The meeting allowed Scalise and Watson to discuss current shortcomings in the offshore permitting process, the impact of last year’s moratorium on drilling in the Gulf, and the importance of offshore energy development.

“During my meeting with Admiral Watson, I emphasized the need to dramatically improve the offshore permitting process so we can allow people to get back to work producing American energy,” Scalise said. “I appreciate Admiral Watson’s willingness to listen and agree to work with me to implement clear and consistent regulations which allow people to play by the rules and get back to work safely producing American energy and reducing our dependence on Middle Eastern Oil. I’m hopeful that this meeting will be the start of a better relationship which accelerates the permitting process in a safe and efficient manner and allows us to create thousands of new jobs here at home.”

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