Virginia coast now may be open for offshore drilling as Bush administration signal a positive nod towards it. So, the next thing you will get to see is a research and development process (Minerals Management Service is already into it) going on to find out the potential gas and oil development in the sector. Earlier, if you remember, barring parts of Mexico almost all U.S coastal waters were banned for offshore drilling thanks to a federal ban.



Virginia lawmakers also have given natural gas drilling on the area a clear nod.

“The idea of leasing federal waters off the coast of Virginia comes in response to discussion in the state’s legislature about the potential of energy development off its coast,” said Johnnie Burton, director of the Minerals Management Service, in a written statement. “However, no offshore development will occur off of Virginia unless the state’s congressional delegation works to lift the moratorium.”