IPAA Statement on Senate Energy Committee Approving Steve Pearce for BLM Director

Mar 4, 2026IPAA Statement on Senate Energy Committee Approving Steve Pearce for BLM Director

WASHINGTON - The Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA) released the following statement on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee approving Congressman Steve Pearce's nomination for Bureau of Land Management Director by a vote of 11-9.

IPAA EVP and Chief Policy Officer Dan Naatz: "IPAA applauds the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for approving Congressman Steve Pearce's nomination for Director of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and moving the nomination for consideration by the full Senate. It's important that the head of the BLM understand the multiple use mandate for federal lands management as enshrined in law. Pearce's background in Congress and serving the state of New Mexico qualify him to lead the agency. IPAA encourages Senate leadership to prioritize a vote on his confirmation, as BLM needs a leader in place to operate at its highest capacity and carry out its vital mission."