Drill This

REVIEW SUMMARY
What. Energy exploration in the Gulf.
Issue. Will the need for new jobs and government revenue trump other issues?
Impact. Up to 5,000 new jobs could be created if the state allows oil and gas leasing.

The stakes just got higher for Florida to get into the multibillion-dollar oil-and-gas-leasing game.

So high that a recent report released by a prominent statewide think-tank holds some jarring projections: For example, by one count Florida could take in up to $3.5 billion and create at least 5,000 jobs over 20 years by opening up its coast to drilling. The work would be done in waters that extend from three to 10.36 miles from shore.