MMS discussions not policy
Thank you for your recent reporting about MMS's Offshore Policy Committee Meeting (OGJ Online, Nov. 22, 2004). We are, however, concerned about the impression your article titled "MMS asks committee to consider potential of excluded OCS areas" may leave with readers.
MMS did not encourage members of the committee to consider the possibility of expansion into the moratoria areas. It is the often-repeated policy of the Bush administration to respect all congressional moratoria and presidential withdrawals. Expansion into moratoria areas was a point of discussion brought up by a policy committee member and not the MMS. We rely on the committee members to provide a diverse array of opinions on a wide variety of issues including moratoria. These discussions by the members should not be construed as official administration policy.
We are firm in our resolve to meet America's energy needs in an environmentally sensitive manner while protecting our oceans and coastlines.
Johnnie Burton
Director
Minerals Management Service