WASHINGTON, D.C.: The Trump administration has launched the first step in crafting a new five-year offshore oil and gas leasing program that could open additional areas, including the Arctic, to energy development.

The Interior Department announced late last week that it would begin a 45-day public comment period to gather input from stakeholders on the plan's scope and direction. The process could ultimately lead to expanded drilling opportunities along the U.S. coasts, though no specific leasing timelines or locations have yet been proposed.

The move follows President Donald Trump's directive to federal agencies to boost U.S. oil and gas output, including reversing previous restrictions imposed to address climate concerns. Among the rollbacks was the repeal of former President Joe Biden's measures blocking drilling in the Arctic and large stretches of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts.

"Under President Donald J. Trump's leadership, we are unlocking the full potential of our offshore resources to benefit the American people for generations to come," said Interior Secretary Doug Burgum in a statement.

The department emphasized that the comment period was intended to solicit feedback, concerns, and recommendations—not to announce immediate lease sales. It also said the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) had recently gained oversight of a new planning area in the High Arctic and was revising the boundaries of other offshore zones, signaling the potential for new areas to be opened to exploration.

While the Trump administration seeks expanded access, existing auctions approved under the previous administration in the Gulf of Mexico—referred to by Trump officials as the "Gulf of America"—will remain unchanged.

Currently, offshore leases represent about 14 percent of U.S. crude oil production, according to the Interior Department.

Environmental groups are expected to challenge any efforts to open sensitive coastal and Arctic areas, citing the risks to ecosystems and the global climate.

Still, the administration says boosting offshore drilling is key to supporting American energy independence and jobs, and last week's announcement marks a significant early step in reshaping the federal offshore energy landscape.