Last day approaches to submit public comments on order to open California coast to drilling

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Wednesday is the last day to submit public comments on a presidential order that could open part of the Northern California coast to oil and gas drilling.

President Trump is considering reducing or eliminating eleven 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 that area and expects legal action if environmental restrictions are removed.

"We've got a lot to fight for fight now. 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," Huffman said.

President trump ordered a review of marine sanctuaries and monuments as part of what he calls the "America-first offshore energy strategy."

You have until Wednesday, July 26 to file a comment.

Click here to reach the comments page.