What it does
SourcedThis joint resolution rescinds a requirement for lessees and operators to submit an archaeological report with any oil and gas exploration or development plan they submit to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) for approval of activities proposed on the Outer Continental Shelf. (An archaeological report identifies material remains of human life or activities that are at least 50 years old and that are of archaeological interest.)
Specifically, the joint resolution nullifies BOEM's final rule titled Protection of Marine Archaeological Resources and published on September 3, 2024.
Nullifying this rule requires BOEM to reinstate regulations that were previously in effect and authorized BOEM to require an archaeological report only if a BOEM regional director has reason to believe that an archaeological resource may be present in the lease area.
Official summary by the Congressional Research Service (Public Law, Mar 14, 2025).
Our plain-language breakdown, with what it means for you and the case for and against, is written once a bill starts to move.
What has happened
Sourced- 2025-03-14Became Public Law No: 119-3.Library of Congress
- 2025-03-14Signed by President.Library of Congress
- 2025-03-10Presented to President.Library of Congress
- 2025-03-06Passed/agreed to in House: On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 221 - 202, 1 Present (Roll no. 61). (text: CR H1014-1015) Roll call recordLibrary of Congress
- 2025-02-25Passed/agreed to in Senate: Passed Senate without amendment by Yea-Nay Vote. 54 - 44. Record Vote Number: 92. Roll call recordLibrary of Congress
- 2025-02-04Introduced in SenateLibrary of Congress
After it became law
SourcedNothing in the Federal Register names Public Law 119-3 yet (checked Oct 27, 2026). Many laws need no new rules: they set penalties, name a building, or fund something directly.
Recorded votes
SourcedFeb 25, 2025 · Senate roll call 91 · needed 1/2
On the Motion to Proceed: Motion to Proceed Agreed to 54–42
R 51 yes, 0 no, 2 present or not votingI 0 yes, 2 noD 3 yes, 40 no, 2 present or not voting
Feb 25, 2025 · Senate roll call 92 · needed 1/2
On the Joint Resolution: Joint Resolution Passed 54–44
R 51 yes, 0 no, 2 present or not votingI 0 yes, 2 noD 3 yes, 42 no
Mar 6, 2025 · House roll call 61 · needed 1/2
On Passage: Passed 221–202
R 212 yes, 1 no, 5 present or not votingD 9 yes, 201 no, 4 present or not voting
Cosponsors
- Mike Crapo R-ID
- Cindy Hyde-Smith R-MS