Environmentalists applaud, petroleum industry does not; reaction to offshore oil drilling announcement Evan Jones March 16, 2016 1 minute read (Associated Press) In a major reversal, the Obama administration says it will not allow oil drilling in the Atlantic Ocean off four states, including Virginia. As WFIR’s Evan Jones reports, the announcement prompted immediate — and mixed — reaction. Share: Post navigation Previous: U.V.A. students increasingly seeking mental health aidNext: Italy-based company to build $75 million plant in Botetourt, creating 350 new jobs Related Stories Carilion has dedicated its first dedicated midwifery clinic Gene Marrano April 28, 2026 Spanberger faces decision on marijuana sales after amendments rejected Ian Price April 28, 2026 Spanberger marks 100 days with bipartisan education push in Roanoke Web Staff April 28, 2026