Florida has become the first US state to secure an undertaking from the government that no new offshore drilling permits will be issued for its coastline to protect its tourism industry.
Pressure from governor Rick Scott has apparently signalled a change of heart from the Trump Administration, whose Interior Department said last week more than 90% of the US coastline was up for grabs to oil and gas exploration.
"President Trump has directed me to rebuild our offshore oil and gas program in a manner that supports our national energy policy and also takes into consideration the local and state voice," interior secretary Ryan Zinke said.
"I support the governor’s position that Florida is unique and its coasts are heavily reliant on tourism as an economic driver. As a result of discussion with Governor Scott’s and his leadership, I am removing Florida from consideration for any new oil and gas platforms."
This includes the oil-rich eastern coastline of the Gulf of Mexico, as well as Atlantic waters.
Zinke said Governor Scott’s fears over oil spills harming Florida’s beaches was behind the decision, although cynics have pointed out that the decision also saves President Trump from looking out at unsightly platforms while enjoying the view at his beloved Mar-a-Lago estate.
"By removing Florida from consideration, we can now focus on how we can further protect our environment, including our proposal for record funding for the Everglades, our springs, our beaches and our state parks," Scott said in a statement.
