Interior Department Reopens Royalty Policy Committee Nomination Process

Date: October 2, 2018
Contact: Interior_Press@ios.doi.gov

WASHINGTON – The Department of the Interior today announced it is reopening the nomination period to fill vacancies for primary and alternate members of the Royalty Policy Committee (RPC). Interior is seeking nominees that represent Indian Tribes, mineral and/or energy stakeholders, states, and academia/public interest groups, for consideration as RPC members. Additional information about the nomination period and instructions for submitting nominations can be found in the Federal Register Notice that will publish Oct. 3, 2018 and on the RPC website.

In addition, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke named Acting RPC Chairman Scott Angelle the permanent RPC chair. Angelle previously served as an ex officio non-voting member of the RPC and continues his role as Director of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement. Angelle joined Interior as BSEE Director on May 24, 2017, following more than 30 years of public and private sector service focusing on driving performance and making organizations smarter and stronger.

“Since its establishment last year, the Royalty Policy Committee has made significant progress on their charge to determine the need for regulatory change and increasing domestic energy production and revenues, while reducing unnecessary burdens,” said Angelle. “I look forward to continuing the great work we started.”

Angelle led the recent public meeting of the RPC in Denver, CO, on Sept. 13. During opening remarks, he emphasized the importance of exploration and production of natural resources on federal lands and waters, and the impact it has on the Nation’s future energy independence, creating jobs, and improving the economy. Prior to the RPC meeting, the committee toured the National Renewable Energy Laboratory facility. 

Members of the Committee serve without compensation. Travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence while away from their homes or regular places of business, may be allowed as authorized by law.

The nomination period is open from Oct. 3 – Nov. 2, 2018. More information can be found at www.doi.gov/rpc.