Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley has voiced her strong opposition to a proposed five-year plan that seeks to expand offshore oil drilling along California’s coast. Following the December 16th Board of Supervisors meeting, where her resolution garnered a split vote of 2 in favor, 2 against, and 1 abstention, Foley announced plans to collaborate with Supervisor Sarmiento in sending an official letter of opposition to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management before the January 23, 2026 deadline.

“Orange County families are unified: No new offshore drilling,” Foley stated. “Our community is defined by our pristine coastline, and oil rigs have no place here. The assertion that drilling will lower gas prices for local families is misleading; instead, it threatens to unravel our thriving $4 billion coastal tourism economy.”

Foley criticized the federal proposal as “unnecessary and reckless,” arguing it undermines 40 years of environmental protections established during President Ronald Reagan’s administration. She emphasized the risks posed to Orange County’s environment and economy, underscoring that local communities bear the costs while transnational oil companies reap the profits.

“Since the United States regained energy independence in 2020, there are over 1,800 offshore oil leases currently unused by major oil companies,” Foley pointed out. “There is no assurance that drilling will stabilize gas prices affected by global markets. The lasting impact of the 2021 oil spill has already damaged our coastline and groundwater, making it imperative that we avoid further risks to public safety and health.”

Foley’s statements highlight the ongoing tensions between energy policy, environmental concerns, and local economic interests ahead of a critical decision regarding offshore drilling in California.

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