The White House is revisiting the possibility of declaring a national climate emergency, which would significantly empower the federal government to limit oil production.
Internally, there are ongoing debates weighing the potential impacts of such a declaration, which would allow measures like reducing crude exports, suspending offshore drilling, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Bloomberg reports that opinions among White House officials are split, with some questioning the extent of new authority the declaration would grant, while others believe it would energize climate-focused voters.
The administration has not reached a decision, and no immediate action is expected as these policy discussions could extend over several years. In the past, similar deliberations have often not led to concrete outcomes.
President Donald Trump used this emergency declaration to redirect military funds for the construction of the border wall. However, a climate declaration by Biden would be an unprecedented use of this power and will likely face legal challenges.
With an election eight months away, youth and environmental activists are calling for more climate action from Biden.
Youth-led environmental groups like the Sunrise Movement, Fridays For Future USA, and the Campus Climate Network are mobilizing for nationwide protests around Earth Day. These demonstrations aim to pressure President Biden to recognize the climate crisis as a national emergency.
This potential declaration is seen by many as a strategic move to galvanize young voters ahead of upcoming elections, highlighting the cross pressures of environmental policy and political strategy.
For more information, contact Sean Wallentine.