U.S Senator Ted Cruz (R) has introduced the Natural Gas Export Expansion Act, legislation that aims to streamline federal approval for exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG).
The Bill is designed to accelerate the permitting process by treating LNG export applications to non-free trade agreement (FTA) countries the same as those for FTA partners, which would significantly shorten review times and remove what sponsors call unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.
"Increasing U.S. energy exports is good for America, and there is no bigger energy producer than Texas," Cruz said. "This legislation ensures that Texas-produced gas can be sent to our allies around the world. It will enhance American energy dominance, create jobs, and drive investment."
Cruz's bill is cosponsored by Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV), both of whom emphasized energy security and economic growth as key benefits of the bill.
"Energy security is national security, and exporting liquefied natural gas strengthens our geopolitical hand," stated Cramer.
Capito further expressed that "expediting the approval process to export American LNG will strengthen our economy, create jobs, and help allies avoid dependence on adversaries for their energy needs."
In the House of Representatives, Texas Rep. Michael Cloud (R) will introduce companion legislation.
"The current approval process for LNG exports is burdened with bureaucratic red tape," said Cloud. "This bill eliminates those hurdles to secure our energy, trade, and job markets."
Under the legislation, the Natural Gas Act will be amended to expedite LNG export permits to non-FTA countries, as well as maintain restrictions for sanctioned or excluded nations.
The Act will also allow Congress or the president to designate additional countries as ineligible for expedited approval.
