The House of Representatives today approved bipartisan legislation that would cut through the red tape currently blocking exports of U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) to our global allies. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, is an original cosponsor of H.R. 6, the Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act, which would speed up the Department of Energy's (DOE) approval process to ensure exports to our allies are no longer subject to unnecessary delays. Currently 26 export applications are pending at DOE, and some have been languishing for more than two years.
The need for increased U.S. LNG exports has received considerable support and attention as the crisis between Russia and Ukraine continues. H.R. 6 passed the House by a bipartisan vote of 266 to 150.
"Because of advances in technology and innovation, we are now entering a new era of abundance, and America is emerging as an energy superpower. We can enjoy the domestic benefits of being an energy superpower while also projecting our influence as a force for good abroad," said Upton.
"Russia's aggression is real, and American LNG can provide a much-needed lifeline as an alternative supply source, away from Putin's grip."
In addition to boosting the U.S. economy and creating thousands of American jobs, U.S. LNG exports could cause a dramatic geopolitical shift by weakening Russia's influence and increasing global energy security. Analysts have concluded that America has more than enough gas to supply our domestic needs and the export market, but DOE's slow approval process could prevent the United States from fully seizing these benefits.
In the Weekly Republican Address, Upton kicked off "Energy Week" in the House by previewing this week's energy-focused legislation. Yesterday, the House approved Upton's bipartisan North American Energy Infrastructure Act (H.R. 3301) to establish a clear and efficient approval process for pipelines and transmissions lines that cross the borders of the United States with Canada or Mexico.