Senator Bill Cassidy | Sen. Bill Cassidy Official Website
Senator Bill Cassidy | Sen. Bill Cassidy Official Website
U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy and 25 Republican colleagues have criticized the Biden administration for pausing all pending non-FTA export permit applications for liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects. In a letter to President Biden and Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, the senators expressed concerns about the potential consequences of the administration's actions on the economy, environment, and national security. Cassidy and his colleagues emphasized the importance of U.S. LNG exports in providing energy security to countries in Europe and around the world.
The letter highlighted the crucial role that U.S. LNG exports have played in supporting countries in Europe, particularly during times of geopolitical tension. "Nearly half of U.S. LNG exports have been delivered to Europe to date, with a significant increase in exports following Russia's invasion of Ukraine," stated the senators. They emphasized that without U.S. LNG exports, European countries would have to choose between depriving their citizens of energy or supporting Russia's aggression.
The senators also raised concerns about the impact of limiting U.S. LNG exports on global emissions. They argued that restricting American LNG exports would not reduce the world's demand for natural gas but would instead lead countries like Russia and Iran to produce more energy with fewer environmental regulations. This could potentially add to global emissions, undermining efforts to combat climate change.
Additionally, Cassidy and his colleagues emphasized the economic benefits of U.S. LNG exports. They cited a study that suggested increased exports of U.S. LNG could create more than 450,000 jobs and boost GDP by $73 billion. The senators urged President Biden and Secretary Granholm to support American LNG exports and recognize the environmental, economic, and national security benefits they bring to the United States and its allies.
The letter was signed by a diverse group of Republican senators, including John Barrasso, Lisa Murkowski, Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, and Tim Scott, among others.
The Biden administration's decision to pause non-FTA export permit applications for LNG projects has been met with strong opposition from Senate Republicans. They argue that such a move could have significant negative consequences for the U.S. economy, energy security, and global emissions. As the debate continues, the future of U.S. LNG exports remains uncertain.