Scott A. Angelle named as BSEE Director
Former Louisiana state official Scott A. Angelle will head up the US Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), the agency announced on 22 May. Mr Angelle, who most recently served as Vice Chairman of the Louisiana Public Service Commission, assumed his new position on 23 May.
“Scott Angelle brings a wealth of experience to BSEE, having spent many years working for the safe and efficient energy production of both Louisiana’s and our country’s offshore resources,” Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke said. “As we set our path towards energy dominance, I am confident that Scott has the expertise, vision and the leadership necessary to effectively enhance our program and to promote the safe and environmentally responsible exploration, development and production of our country’s offshore oil and gas resources.”
Mr Angelle, who will serve as the fourth director in BSEE’s history, has held numerous positions in Louisiana State and Parish governments, including Interim Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and St. Martin Parish President. In the aftermath of the BP oil spill, Mr Angelle served at the request of then Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal as liaison to the federal government and negotiated an early end of the previous administration’s drilling moratorium.
“I welcome the opportunity to serve President Trump and Secretary Zinke and work with BSEE staff to meet the critical goal of energy dominance for our country,” Mr Angelle said. “It is an exciting and challenging time for BSEE. I look forward to leading our efforts to empower the offshore oil and gas industry while ensuring safe and environmentally responsible operations.”
Mr Angelle served for eight years as Louisiana’s Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources. Under his leadership, the state’s coastal permitting system was reformed, providing for efficient permitting while increasing drilling rig counts in Louisiana by more than 150% during his tenure. Mr Angelle has also served as Chairman of the Louisiana State Mineral Board and as a member of the Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors, Southern States Energy Board and the Louisiana Coastal Port Advisory Authority.
In response to Mr Angelle’s appointment, IADC President Jason McFarland issued the following statement: “IADC is pleased with the selection of Scott A. Angelle to lead BSEE. His reputation as a tough defender of offshore safety and his commitment to cultivating the natural resources of the US, make him an ideal director for BSEE. IADC looks forward to working with Director Angelle on a wide variety of issues that affect drilling contractor operations, most importantly on the Bureau’s Well Control Rule, which IADC and other industry groups have consistently argued is flawed and requires significant changes to be effective.”
