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 19 years later, the Excel Center Adult High School helps her graduate with a hard-earned diploma Gene Marrano July 21, 2026 Excel Center will welcome more students; holding job fairs as well Gene Marrano July 21, 2026 Roanoke councilman accuses colleague of racist remark Web Staff July 18, 2026