What Shutdown? Work on Fossil Fuel Permits Continues

Despite the ongoing partial government shutdown, certain federal employees responsible for processing permits for oil, gas, and mining operations are still on the job. This has raised eyebrows among environmental advocates and lawmakers, who argue that the continued work on fossil fuel projects undermines the Trump administration's claims of a shutdown-induced standstill.According to sources, employees within the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service are continuing to work on permits for fossil fuel extraction, despite the lapse in appropriations that has furloughed hundreds of thousands of federal workers. This includes staff focused on repealing pollution limits and streamlining regulations for the energy industry.The BLM, in particular, has been working to advance permits for oil and gas drilling on public lands, a key priority for the Trump administration. The agency has reportedly been processing permit applications and conducting environmental reviews, even as many of its employees remain furloughed. This has sparked concerns among environmental groups, who argue that the continued work on fossil fuel projects could have long-term consequences for public health and the environment."It's outrageous that the Trump administration is prioritizing the interests of the fossil fuel industry over the needs of the American people," said a spokesperson for the environmental group, Friends of the Earth. "The shutdown should not be used as an excuse to push through destructive projects that threaten our air, water, and lands."The continued work on fossil fuel permits has also drawn criticism from lawmakers, who argue that it highlights the administration's cozy relationship with the energy industry. "The fact that BLM and Forest Service employees are still working on permits for fossil fuel projects raises serious questions about the Trump administration's commitment to transparency and accountability," said a Democratic lawmaker.The partial government shutdown, which began in December, has had far-reaching consequences for federal agencies and the public. However, the continued work on fossil fuel permits has underscored the tension between the Trump administration's deregulatory agenda and its claims of a shutdown-induced slowdown. As the shutdown drags on, it remains to be seen how the administration will balance its priorities and respond to criticism from environmental advocates and lawmakers.