67-300 - Offshore energy resources. - Virginia Statutes

§ 67-300. Offshore energy resources.

A. In recognition of the need for energy independence, it shall be the policyof the Commonwealth to support federal efforts to:

1. Determine the extent of oil and natural gas resources 50 miles or more offthe Atlantic shoreline, including appropriate federal funding for such aninvestigation; and

2. Permit the production and development of oil and natural gas resources 50miles or more off the Atlantic shoreline taking into account the impact onaffected localities, the armed forces of the United States of America, andthe mid-Atlantic regional spaceport.

B. The policy of the Commonwealth shall further support the inclusion of theAtlantic Planning Areas in the Minerals Management Service's draftenvironmental impact statement with respect to oil and natural gasexploration, production, and development 50 miles or more off the Atlanticshoreline.

C. It shall be the policy of the Commonwealth to support federal efforts toexamine the feasibility of offshore wind energy being utilized in anenvironmentally responsible fashion.

(2006, c. 939; 2010, cc. 607, 756.)