SE Texas Times

Washington, D.C. - Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14) recently welcomed the House Energy and Commerce Energy, Climate, and Grid Security Subcommittee to Port Arthur, Texas, for a significant field hearing focusing on President Biden's LNG export ban.

During the hearing, local leaders, including Mayor Thurman Bill Bartie and Dr. Betty J. Reynard, President of Lamar State College Port Arthur, testified before the committee, emphasizing the importance of LNG in the Southeast Texas community and national security.

Rep. Weber expressed his enthusiasm for showcasing Southeast Texas as the future LNG hub of the United States, stating, "It is great to be in Southeast Texas today with the Energy and Commerce Committee, and it is going to be a good afternoon to highlight the Energy Capital of the World and soon to be the LNG hub for the United States."

He highlighted the detrimental impact of President Biden's ban on American LNG projects, particularly mentioning the implications for Port Arthur LNG. Rep. Weber stated, "Joe Biden's ban directly jeopardizes Port Arthur LNG, which broke ground on construction last month... This abrupt, politically-motivated ban brings this project to a screeching halt. This ban will cost Southeast Texas thousands of jobs and hurt businesses that rely on projects like these."

Moreover, Rep. Weber underscored the positive community contributions of LNG projects, citing Lamar State College Port Arthur's program to educate future LNG workers. He emphasized, "These LNG companies have donated money, given scholarships, and partnered with local colleges and high schools... highlighting the investments that LNG companies are making to restore marine habitats, improve infrastructure like highways and bridges, not to mention the work they do in the community."

The hearing provided a platform for stakeholders like Larry Kelley, Executive Port Director and CEO of the Port of Port Arthur, and James Beard, Jr., Founder and CEO of the Port Arthur Community Action Network, to contribute their perspectives on the significance of LNG in the region.

The event served as a crucial forum for discussing the implications of the LNG export ban and its far-reaching consequences on local economies and job markets. Rep. Weber and other participants reiterated the vital role of LNG projects in uplifting communities and fostering economic growth, underscoring the need for continued support and development in the energy sector.