(RICHMOND, VA)—The full Virginia House and Senate yesterday passed legislation that would prohibit oil and gas drilling and related infrastructure in Virginia waters up to three miles off the coast. The legislation would also repeal state code language stating that it is Virginia’s policy to support offshore drilling. This comes as the Trump Administration has proposed opening the Atlantic Coast to drilling.
Chesapeake Bay Foundation Virginia Executive Director Peggy Sanner issued the following statement.
“Offshore drilling in Virginia would threaten not only clean water and coastal habitat, but also our economy. This legislation is an important step in protecting Virginia from dangerous and unnecessary drilling in waters off our coast.
“The General Assembly has sent a clear message that Virginia opposes risky offshore oil and gas production, joining a chorus of Virginia localities and municipalities up and down the Atlantic Coast. We are grateful to bill patrons Senator Lynwood Lewis and Delegate Mark Keam for taking a stand for healthy waters and a strong coastal economy. We thank all the legislators who have supported this legislation and look forward to additional good news as the bills move to the Governor’s desk.”
