On October 9, 2026, the Department of the Interior announced a new categorical exclusion (CE) under NEPA procedures for wintertime oil and gas exploration activities in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. The CE has been added to the DOI Handbook of NEPA Implementing Procedures, Appendix 2: Bureau Categorical Exclusions. 91 Fed. Reg. 64673 (Oct. 9, 2026).
Previously, each application for permits for these activities underwent its own NEPA procedure, including environmental assessments. The CE will reduce regulatory burdens, streamline the application process and, as a result, increase fossil fuel exploration and production. The action supports President Trump's Executive Order No. 14153, "Unleashing Alaska's Extraordinary Resource Potential," which states that it is the policy of the United States “efficiently and effectively maximize the development and production of the natural resources located on both Federal and State lands within Alaska” and “expedite the permitting and leasing of energy and natural resources projects in Alaska.”