Leasing of Sulphur or Oil and Gas in the Outer Continental Shelf

This rule amends the regulations of MMS to allow the authorized officer to extend the 90-day time period within which we must accept or reject the high bids received on Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) tracts offered for sale. Unforeseen circumstances including a flood, a furlough, and an extremely high bid response may create a need for more time to evaluate bids. The rule gives the authorized officer authority to extend the time period for 15 working days or longer, beyond 90 days after the date on which the bids are opened, when circumstances warrant.