In January 2024, the Biden Administration announced a pause on permits for new liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects. In response to this pause, it was announced that the U.S. House of Representatives would be voting on H.R. 7176, the Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act (Rep. Pflueger, TX-11), which would repeal the Biden Administration’s ban on new LNG export projects. Following the news, Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian said the following:
“U.S. LNG is life-saving energy to our allies, and I don’t know about the president, but I’d much rather have the world buying American natural gas over foreign or hostile nations,” said Commissioner Christian. “President Joe Biden’s politically motivated pause on new LNG export projects hurts consumers, Texans’ jobs, slows the U.S. economy, makes energy more expensive, and jeopardizes the lives of our foreign allies.”
Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian
In a letter signed off by Christian, he expresses support for H.R. 7176, the Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act, emphasizing the importance of a strong liquefied natural gas (LNG) export industry in restoring global order and supporting American energy dominance. It criticizes President Biden’s pause on new LNG export projects, arguing that it will harm consumers, jobs, the economy, and international alliances. The letter highlights the significance of LNG in mitigating global trade disruptions and ensuring energy security for allies.
Additionally, it underscores the role of American fossil fuels in providing energy independence and combating climate change, advocating for policies that prioritize responsible production and export of oil and gas. The letter concludes by urging the removal of political barriers to LNG export projects, which are crucial for Texas, America, and the world’s economic prosperity and stability.
“H.R. 7176 will put pressure on the Biden Administration to remove their political and unnecessary blockade on LNG export projects which are vital to Texas, America, and the world. It’s a great bill, and I applaud Rep. Pfluger and House Republicans for fighting back,” continued Christian. “If America cuts off LNG shipments, it will allow China, Iran, and Russia’s influence to grow. Our nation should be THE global energy leader – not through unreliable and heavily subsidized ‘green’ energy – but through the responsible production and export of oil and gas.”
