"WASHINGTON — The Trump administration said Wednesday it is moving forward on seismic surveys in the Atlantic Ocean, the first step toward offshore drilling in a region where it has been blocked for decades.

The Interior Department said it is reviewing six applications by energy companies that were rejected by the Obama administration.

Environmental groups and many East Coast lawmakers oppose the surveys, saying loud sounds from seismic air guns could hurt marine life."

Matthew Daly reports for the Associated Press May 11, 2017. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Sen. Marco Rubio Throws Wrench Into Florida Oil Drilling Debate" (Tampa Bay Tribune) [3]