NE Washington News

House Energy and Commerce Energy, Climate, and Grid Security Subcommittee Chair Jeff Duncan (R-SC) made a powerful statement at a field hearing in Port Arthur, Texas, addressing President Biden's LNG export ban. Duncan emphasized the importance of U.S. LNG exports and the negative impacts of Biden's decision on American communities.

Duncan highlighted the benefits of U.S. LNG exports, stating, “The U.S. is blessed with tremendous natural resources and the entrepreneurial spirit required to harness these resources and propel the United States to global energy dominance." He pointed out that the U.S. is the leading producer and exporter of liquified natural gas in the world, which not only strengthens energy security but also creates jobs and reduces emissions.

However, Duncan criticized President Biden's ban on LNG exports, stating, “President Biden has ignored both reality and science to heed the calls of his radical environmental base." He expressed concerns that the ban will have detrimental effects on American jobs and economic development, particularly in communities like Port Arthur that support the U.S. LNG industry.

Duncan also raised the issue of the ban benefiting other countries, saying, “Global demand for gas is expected to increase 46 percent by 2050, and our European and Asian allies will look to Qatar, Russia, and Iran to meet their growing energy needs." He accused the Biden administration of favoring environmental priorities over the interests of the American people and even aiding Putin by restricting U.S. LNG exports.

In response to the ban, Republicans in the House of Representatives have taken action by passing HR 7176, the Unlocking our Domestic LNG Potential Act, which aims to reverse Biden's export ban and remove restrictions on the import and export of natural gas.

Duncan concluded by acknowledging the crucial role of Port Arthur in the American energy industry, stating, “Port Arthur and the folks here today are the backbone of the American Energy Industry." He emphasized the importance of consulting with industry stakeholders before making decisions that impact their livelihoods.

The hearing in Port Arthur shed light on the significant implications of President Biden's LNG export ban, with Chair Jeff Duncan advocating for the reversal of this decision to support American jobs, economic growth, and energy security.