First Deepwater Drilling Premit Approved In Gulf Since Moratorium

The Federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement has approved the first deepwater drilling permit for the Gulf of Mexico since the drilling moratorium began last June. Louisiana Oil & Gas Association president Don Briggs says it is truly good news for the oil industry. Noble Energy has been given permission to resume drilling in deep water about 70 miles southeast of Venice. Briggs hopes this means the Obama White House is ready to release its chokehold on domestic drilling.