H.R. 8542 · In committee · Public Lands and Natural Resources

Offshore Parity Act of 2026

What it does

Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to delegate to Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama the authority to manage oil, gas, and other energy leases on expanded submerged lands between 3 geographical miles.
Allows delegated states to collect rentals, royalties, and other revenue sums from leases granted after enactment in the expanded seaward area, exempting those leases from federal minimum bid and royalty requirements.
Requires delegated states to indemnify the United States for any liability to existing lease holders arising from the delegation of authority or state management of those leases.
Expands Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama's jurisdiction under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to 3 marine leagues seaward of each state's coast line to allow the states to manage fisheries in the expanded area.
Transfers to delegated states any surety bonds held by the federal government for oil, gas, or energy leases in the expanded submerged lands within 90 days of delegation, requiring states to ensure decommissioning compliance with federal law.

Jun 3, 2026: Subcommittee Hearings Held

Committee: House Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Subcommittee