VIDEO: Presidential order could open part of NorCal coast to drilling

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The window for public comments on a presidential order that could open part of the Northern California coast to oil and gas drilling has been extended until August 14.

President Trump is considering reducing or eliminating 11 national marine sanctuaries and monuments.

Underwater protections could be cut in the Greater Farallones, Cordell Bank and Monterey Bay sanctuaries.

They were expanded in the last decade and now include sensitive coastal waters from Mendocino County all the way to Monterey County.

Congressman Jared Huffman represents the northern part of the area and expects legal action if environmental restrictions are removed.

"We've got a lot to fight for now," he said. "It's kind of surprising that the Trump Administration would try to reopen some of these protections. They are widely supported in California and we need to speak up."

Trump ordered a review of marine sanctuaries and monuments as part of what he calls the America-First Offshore Energy Strategy.

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