FOR RELEASE: July 20, 1995                   CONTACT: Tom DeRocco
                                                   (202) 208-3983 
                                               Michael L. Baugher 
                                                    (303)231-3162

                                
        MMS CONDUCTS STAKEHOLDER MEETING IN DENVER

        
     The U.S. Department of the Interior's Minerals Management
Service (MMS) conducted a two-day conference in Denver to consult
with its principal stakeholders on the Administration s proposal
to devolve the royalty collection function to states and Indian
tribes. 

     Attending the meeting were representatives of states, Indian
tribes and allottees, industry, the Bureau of Land Management,
the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the MMS and the Office of the
Secretary.

     MMS Acting Deputy Director Carolita Kallaur said,  The
session demonstrated a common willingness by participants to
openly explore ideas to make government work better and cost
less.   

     Kallaur explained,  We took the opportunity to establish a
baseline of understanding of RMPs functions, processes and
responsibilities. 

     MMS officials reinforced that a March 1995, proposal to
devolve the Royalty Management Program was merely that a proposal
the beginning of the consultative process with states, Indians
and industry. 

     Some of our most valuable time was spent listening to
comments of constituent participants, added Kallaur. 

     At the end of the meeting, Kallaur concluded,  A new royalty
program can only be achieved through consensus of all parties  
state and federal government, Indian tribes and allottee
associations, and industry. Objectives for a successful proposal
must be based on at least these three points:

     Less costs for all parties
     No loss of revenues for royalty recipients
     Maintains the Federal government's Indian Trust 
          Responsibility. 
   
                          -MMS-