The 1990 Session of the General Assembly passed House Joint Resolution No. 251 (see Appendix A) which established a joint subcommittee to study the environmental impact of oil and gas drilling under the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries and in Tidewater Virginia. The Joint subcommittee was directed to assess the economic benefits that might be derived from oil and gas production and the risks to the natural environment, and the marine industries it sustains, which may result from drilling under the Bay and in or under shore areas of Tidewater. The subcommittee was directed to complete its work and submit its findings and recommendations to the 1992 Session of the General Assembly.