(a) In accordance with section 8 of the Act, leases shall be awarded only to the highest responsible qualified bidder.
(b) Mineral leases issued pursuant to section 8 of the Act may be held only by:
(1) Citizens and nationals of the United States;
(2) Aliens lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20);
(3) Private, public or municipal corporations organized under the laws of the United States or of any State or of the District of Columbia or territory thereof; or
(4) Associations of such citizens, nationals, resident aliens, or private, public, or municipal corporations, States, or political subdivisions of States.
(c) BOEM may disqualify you from acquiring any new lease holdings or lease assignments if your operating performance is unacceptable according to 30 CFR 550.135.