BLM Proposes to Suspend Key Requirements of Methane Waste Prevention Rule

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued a proposal to temporarily suspend or delay key requirements of the Methane Waste Prevention Rule (finalized on November 10, 2016), which aims to reduce waste of natural gas (methane) from oil and natural gas production activities on federal and tribal land.

BLM previously announced on June 15, 2017 that it was postponing the compliance deadlines for these requirements, citing concerns regarding the “potential consequences of litigation” on the rule. In the most recent proposal, BLM says it is postponing the requirements becuase it is “currently reviewing the 2016 final rule and wants to avoid imposing temporary or permanent compliance costs on operators for requirements that may be rescinded or significantly revised in the near future.” The requirements have been suspended until January 17, 2019.

Comments on the proposal are due November 6, 2017.