US Democrats, who have till now strongly resisted any plans to lift the moratorium, are now leading the debate to open up shores for offshore drilling.
Most Republicans, who were previously in favor of revoking the ban, are expected to oppose the bill as it reportedly keeps many areas off-limits.
The package prohibits drilling within 50 miles off the coast, while it gives states the option to drill between 50 and 100 miles off their shores. Areas farther than 100 miles from the coast will be completely open to exploration.
