To approve the designation of the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary, to disapprove a term of that designation, and to prohibit the exploration for, or the development or production of, oil, gas, or minerals in any area of that Sanctuary.
Declares that the Congress approves, with certain exceptions, the designation of the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary, California. Prohibits the exploration for, development, or production of oil, gas, or minerals in the Sanctuary. Prohibits the Secretary of the Interior from approving any exploration plan, including any application for a drilling permit, until a final environmental impact statement is issued for the plan.
Requires the Secretary to suspend operations under any lease in effect after enactment of this Act with respect to Sanctuary lands and extend such lease for the period between the submission of the exploration plan or the date after enactment of this Act, whichever occurs later, and the issuance of such statement.
Became Public Law No: 101-74.