July 14, 2008 Bush lifts executive ban for offshore drilling Play video

(NECN: Washington) - President Bush is once again pressuring Congress to deal with the nation's soaring energy prices. Mr. Bush is lifting an executive ban on offshore oil drilling. By itself, the move will not reverse the plan.

Congress would need to sign off on removing its own ban to begin the process of allowing offshore drilling.

In recent days, the President has called on Congress to act on the drilling moratorium, and other measures to increase oil exploration.

Still, Democrats say it will have little immediate effect on bringing prices down at the pumps.