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Trump Repeals Conservation Lease Rule; Industry Praises, Environmentalists Alarmed

5/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Interior Department announced that U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration is repealing the 2024 rule that equated conservation leases with commercial development.
The repeal takes effect 30 days after its Federal Register publication.
The Independent Petroleum Association of America said the change gives oil and gas producers clearer, more predictable leasing.
The Natural Resources Defense Council warned the repeal weakens drinking-water protection, endangers wildlife and reduces corporate accountability.

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Story summary

The Interior Department announced that U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration is repealing the 2024 rule that equated conservation leases with commercial development.
The repeal takes effect 30 days after its Federal Register publication.
The Independent Petroleum Association of America said the change gives oil and gas producers clearer, more predictable leasing.
The Natural Resources Defense Council warned the repeal weakens drinking-water protection, endangers wildlife and reduces corporate accountability.