SE Texas Times

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14) has voted in favor of H.R. 7176, the Unlocking Our Domestic LNG Potential Act of 2024. This bill aims to remove restrictions on the import and export of natural gas and ensure that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) deems such activities consistent with the public interest.

Rep. Weber expressed concern over President Biden's recent ban on LNG exports, stating that it directly impacts Southeast Texas. He highlighted the potential negative consequences for the Port Arthur LNG and Golden Pass LNG facilities, which have already completed the extensive permitting process and are on the verge of commencing operations. Rep. Weber emphasized that this ban puts these projects in limbo, jeopardizing thousands of jobs and harming the local, state, and national economies.

"The United States produces energy more cleanly and more reliably than any other nation, and the Biden Administration needs to wake up and realize that," said Rep. Weber. He further emphasized the importance of America's energy security and expressed pride that the House had passed the bill to reverse the ban, preventing the administration from playing politics with this critical issue.

The background of the bill stems from President Biden's announcement on January 26th, in which he implemented an indefinite ban on the issuance of export permits to non-FTA countries. This ban is in place while the administration conducts a review to assess the climate impacts of natural gas. The White House fact sheet accompanying the announcement justifies the ban based on the urgency to address the "existential threat" of climate change.

Under current law, natural gas exports to countries with which the U.S. has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are approved without delay. However, for non-FTA countries, the Energy Secretary must approve export requests unless they are found to be inconsistent with the public interest. It is important to note that there is a clear statutory presumption that U.S. LNG exports are in the public interest.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has already commissioned five studies examining the effects of U.S. LNG exports. These studies have unanimously demonstrated the benefits to the U.S. economy and domestic natural gas prices. Additionally, the DOE has conducted two studies on the life cycle greenhouse gas impacts of U.S. LNG exports, which have shown significant environmental benefits. Notably, previous administrations have conducted similar studies without blocking export permits.

The Unlocking Our Domestic LNG Potential Act of 2024, H.R. 7176, seeks to amend the Natural Gas Act by repealing all restrictions on the import and export of natural gas. The bill also grants exclusive authority to FERC to approve or deny applications for the siting, construction, expansion, or operation of facilities involved in LNG exports or imports. It clarifies that the President's authority to impose sanctions on foreign entities or governments, including those designated as state sponsors of terrorism, is not limited by this legislation.

With Rep. Weber's support, this bill aims to protect the LNG industry in Southeast Texas and ensure the continued growth and success of projects like the Port Arthur LNG and Golden Pass LNG facilities. By removing unnecessary restrictions and allowing for the free trade of natural gas, the bill promotes job creation, economic prosperity, and strengthens America's energy security.