RELEASE: Cloud and Cruz Introduce the Natural Gas Export Expansion Act to Expedite LNG Exports and Strengthen our Domestic Energy Security

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Michael Cloud (TX-27) and Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced the Natural Gas Export Expansion Act, legislation aimed at eliminating regulatory hurdles that will secure our energy, trade, and job markets from future administrations that may try to obstruct future exports.

The bill prevents future administrations from arbitrarily pausing LNG export permits, as the Biden Administration did before President Trump reversed course. It is crucial that we protect LNG from future hostile administrations.

Natural Gas Export Expansion Act:

• Ensures applications to export LNG to certain non-free trade countries are treated the same as free trade countries and “deemed to be consistent with the public interest.”
• Removes red tape to deliver LNG to some of our biggest customers, such as the European Union.
• Excludes nations subject to U.S. sanctions, including regimes like North Korea.

“The current approval process for our LNG exports is burdened with bureaucratic red tape that puts American energy independence and dominance at risk,” said Rep. Cloud. “The Natural Gas Expansion Act eliminates regulatory hurdles, which will secure our energy, trade, and job markets, regardless of any change in the executive. I appreciate the opportunity to work with Senator Cruz in advancing this important legislation for American Energy.”

Sen. Cruz said, “Increasing U.S. energy exports is good for America, and there is no bigger energy producer than the state of Texas. My legislation expedites permits for LNG exporters to ensure that Texas-produced gas can be sent to our allies around the world. It will enhance American energy dominance, create jobs, and drive investment. I call on my colleagues to pass this legislation expeditiously.”

The Natural Gas Export Expansion Act connects U.S. liquefied natural gas to countries around the world that depend on it,” said Port of Corpus Christi CEO Kent Britton. “The Port of Corpus Christi supports this step toward strengthening domestic energy security at home and abroad.”

“PBPA and our members greatly appreciate the leadership from Texas officials, including this new effort by Congressman Michael Cloud, the Natural Gas Export Expansion Act,” said Permian Basin Petroleum Association President Ben Shepered. “The energy produced in the Permian Basin and all throughout Texas continue to benefit the world over, including providing accessible and reliable energy for our allies abroad. In these times with great strife and challenge, America must do all it can to expand exports in order to further energy security for America and our allies. We thank the Congressman for his efforts and continue to support all legislation that promotes Permian Basin natural resources.”

“Certainty is vital for the U.S. LNG industry and this legislation would help provide that, helping grow transatlantic energy cooperation and supporting allies in Asia and around the world,” said the Center for LNG.

Click here to read the bill.

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