Feds reject pleas on offshore drilling

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Federal regulators have rejected pleas from officials to delay plans for oil and gas drilling off the Virginia coast.

Gov. Timothy Kaine recently asked the Minerals Management Service to postpone planning for offshore drilling until President-elect Barack Obama takes office. Several members of Congress have asked for the plans to be dropped.

Minerals Management Service Director Randall Luthi says a delay isn't necessary because any drilling is years away and will come only after significant study and public input. The agency extended the time for public comment over the holidays.

Drilling is expected in 2011. Obama could choose to delay or speed up the process.

Obama initially opposed the idea, but now favors it.