Congress debates amendment to pause gas export bill until price impact assessed

During a recent meeting of the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce, significant discussions centered around proposed amendments to a bill concerning liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. One notable amendment aimed to delay the bill's implementation until the Department of Energy could confirm that increased gas exports would not lead to higher domestic gas prices. This proposal was introduced amid concerns that the legislation could result in increased electric bills for American consumers.

The amendment's sponsor criticized the bill as a "special interest giveaway," suggesting that it would disproportionately benefit wealthy stakeholders while raising costs for everyday Americans. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in decisions regarding large infrastructure projects and gas exports, arguing that these should prioritize the interests of American families and businesses.

Concerns were raised about the bill's provisions that would limit the Department of Energy's role in assessing the public interest of gas exports. Critics argued that the legislation would undermine the authority of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) by mandating that all gas exports be deemed in the public interest without thorough evaluation.

The discussion also highlighted a recent study from the Department of Energy, which indicated that continued approval of gas exports could lead to increased costs for U.S. households. Reports from various sources, including The New York Times, noted a surge in electricity prices, with predictions that the proposed legislation could exacerbate this trend.

Additionally, the committee addressed the potential impact of a sweeping domestic policy bill currently under consideration in the Senate, which could eliminate federal tax credits for low-carbon energy sources. This change could result in an average increase of $400 in energy bills for families, according to multiple studies.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing debate over energy policy in the U.S., particularly regarding the balance between export opportunities and domestic consumer protections. The committee's discussions reflect broader concerns about energy affordability and the implications of legislative decisions on American households and businesses.