Hello from the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, the event where oil and natural gas companies gather to see the latest technologies and discuss the state of drilling today.

Much of the conversation during the morning session focused on energy policy and whether the United States is nearing a time when policymakers will propose legislation that addresses both U.S. energy security and environmental concerns. In a panel discussion on how to improve communications about energy, panelists asked whether that's possible in the current political climate.

According to a taped speech delivered by Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-AK, effective legislation can't be developed as long as the oil and natural gas industry is considered the "government's ATM machine."

That raises a question: does the... more »

This week the Florida House of Representatives voted overwhelming to pass a bill to authorize oil and natural gas development in Florida state waters.

Florida's House of Representatives--like the majority of Americans--recognizes that domestic oil and natural gas development is necessary to preserve and create jobs, generate revenues for cash-strapped state and local governments and bolster America's energy security.

It also recognizes the nation's oil and gas industry uses state-of-the art technology and strict operating practices to ensure that any development would be done in a way that protects both the environment and state's vital tourism industry.

We hope that the state's governor and its Senate can see the wisdom in the House proposal, and re-open the door to offshore oil and gas d... more »