Barrasso Requested GAO Report Finds the BIA Has Slowed Energy Development in Indian Country

Press Release

U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, highlighted a report released today by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) entitled: "Indian Energy Development: Poor Management by BIA has Hindered Energy Development on Indian Lands."

The report was conducted at the request of Chairman Barrasso to examine the barriers tribes face when looking to develop their own natural resources. The study examines which factors, including the regulatory framework, have deterred tribes from pursuing natural resource development and the Department of the Interior's efforts to assist tribes with that development.

In the report, GAO finds that poor management at the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), federal regulatory burdens, and varied tribal capacity and infrastructure has slowed energy development in Indian Country. The report also finds that the BIA lacks the necessary data and staff to make accurate and timely determinations on tribal energy projects, often leading to higher costs and missed development opportunities.

"This new report highlights several federal impediments to energy development in Indian Country," said Chairman Barrasso. "Washington's poor record keeping and lack of consistency is slowing down natural resource development for tribes. I intend to work with Members of Congress to ensure that the Department takes steps to quickly address these issues so that tribal leaders can develop the resources on their lands more expeditiously."

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