How the U.S. Regulates Oil & Gas: Federal & State Framework

Oil and gas regulation spans multiple agencies:

1. Mineral Leasing Act (1920) – BLM manages onshore federal leasing.
2. Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (1953) – BOEM oversees offshore federal waters.
3. EPA – Air emissions, water quality, waste permits.
4. PHMSA (DOT) – Pipeline safety design, construction, operation.
5. State Agencies – Permitting, land-use, environmental rules, taxation within state boundaries.

Together they balance resource development with environmental protection and public safety.