SE Texas Times

U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14) introduced a resolution condemning the Biden Administration’s recent ban on liquefied natural gas (LNG) export permits to non-free trade agreement countries.

"The Biden Administration’s decision to ban LNG export permits is a blatant attempt to fulfill campaign promises at the expense of American jobs and economic prosperity," said Rep. Weber. "This outrageous ban directly harms Southeast Texas, threatening our national security and devastating our local communities. Our hardworking families and critical energy infrastructure should not be sacrificed for political agendas. I am proud to lead my colleagues in condemning this misguided administration and their destructive energy policies. Together, we will fight to protect American jobs, ensure our energy independence, and support the communities that rely on a thriving LNG industry."

The resolution aims to:

- Condemn the Biden administration’s suspension of LNG export permits.

- Call for the immediate lifting of the ban to restore confidence in the U.S. energy sector.

- Urge the administration to prioritize American workers and communities over partisan political agendas.

- Transmit copies of the resolution to relevant stakeholders, including the President of the United States and the Secretary of Energy.

In April, Rep. Weber led a field hearing in Port Arthur, Texas with the Energy and Commerce Committee to discuss LNG exports' economic benefits from his district. The hearing highlighted job creation, infrastructure development, and increased tax revenue supporting essential services like education and healthcare.

On January 26th, President Biden announced an indefinite ban on issuing export permits to non-FTA countries while conducting a review on natural gas's climate impacts. The White House justified this action based on addressing climate change as an "existential threat." Current law mandates that natural gas exports to FTA countries be approved without delay; for non-FTA countries, approval is required unless deemed inconsistent with public interest.

The Department of Energy has commissioned five studies demonstrating U.S. LNG exports' benefits to the economy and domestic natural gas prices. Additionally, two studies examining life cycle greenhouse gas impacts showed strong environmental benefits.

The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Dan Meuser (PA-09), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Russ Fulcher (ID-01), Darrell Issa (CA-48), Richard Hudson (NC-09), Keith Self (TX-03), John Carter (TX-31), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Rick Allen (GA-12), John Joyce (PA-13), Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Debbie Lesko (AZ-08), Mary Miller (IL-15), Kelly Armstrong (ND-at large), Dan Bishop (NC-08), Neal Dunn (FL-02), Russell Fry (SC-07), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Don Bacon (NE -02 ), Ron Estes(KS -04 ), Michael McCaul(TX -10 ), Gus Bilirakis(FL -12 ), Ronny Jackson(TX -13 ), Larry Bucshon(IN -08 ), Jim Baird(IN -04 ), Mike Rogers(AL -03 ), Brian Babin(TX -36 ), Jodey Arrington(TX -19 ), Gary Palmer(AL -06 ), Troy Nehls(TX -22 ), Aaron Bean(FL -04 ), Mike Turner(OH -10 ), Mike Lawler(NY -17 ), Scott Franklin(FL -18 ) ,and Blaine Luetkemeyer(MO – 03).