Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and John Barrasso have expressed strong opposition to a recent study on liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports released by the Biden-Harris administration. The senators criticized the timing of the release, describing it as a "holiday news dump."

"The only ‘science’ driving the Biden-Harris LNG pause and study is political science," stated Dr. Cassidy. He further commented on what he perceives as an attack on American energy, asserting that natural gas has played a crucial role in reducing emissions and supporting allies' energy needs.

Senator Barrasso echoed these sentiments, highlighting the benefits of American LNG exports for both domestic and international stakeholders. "Studies have repeatedly shown that American liquefied natural gas exports benefit our economy, our environment, our security and the security of our allies," he said. Barrasso also looked forward to potential policy reversals under future administrations.

The Biden-Harris administration's decision to freeze pending applications for LNG export permits has been met with resistance from some Republican lawmakers. In response, Senator Cassidy led a group of 25 colleagues in condemning this move, citing concerns about its impact on European allies reliant on U.S. LNG following geopolitical tensions involving Russia.

To counteract these decisions, Senators Cassidy and Barrasso introduced legislative measures such as the LNG Security Act and the Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act. These initiatives aim to reverse current restrictions on LNG exports and streamline approval processes through regulatory changes.

Senator Cassidy has actively voiced his concerns through various platforms, including an op-ed co-authored with Senator John Cornyn in February, which outlined perceived negative consequences of the administration's policies on economic and national security fronts.