Biden blocks oil drilling in 625 million acres of U.S. ocean with new executive order

President Biden has signed an executive order to block oil drilling in over 625 million acres of U.S. ocean, marking the largest such action in history. This move aims to protect the East Coast, West Coast, eastern Gulf of Mexico, and part of the Bering Sea. The order prohibits new oil leases in these areas but does not affect existing leases. While some industry representatives criticize the decision as politically motivated, environmental groups celebrate it as a significant victory for ocean conservation. Biden's protections are permanent, unlike previous measures that had expiration dates. The incoming Trump administration is expected to challenge this order, potentially seeking to reverse it through Congress.