The House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy and Power discussed on Tuesday legislation introduced by Rep. Cory Gardner (R-Colo.) that would expedite liquefied natural gas exports to World Trade Organization member countries.
The Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act would grant approval of export applications already filed with the Department of Energy. Changes to the approval process are designed to prevent Russia from disrupting the supply of LNG to European countries.
“The near monopolistic control Russia has on the LNG market in Europe has given them immense power,” Gardner, a member of the subcommittee and the House Energy and Commerce Committee, said. “Reforming the LNG export process would send an immediate signal to the rest of the world that would help check Russia’s aggression. It’s going to take more than sanctions to stand up to Putin, which is why this legislation is so important to our friends around the globe.”
The measure would also create jobs and promote economic growth domestically, Gardner said.
“Rarely in Congress do we get (the) chance to pass legislation that creates economic opportunities here at home, and strengthens and helps our allies around the globe, and weakens our enemies, and not spend the American taxpayers’ money…,” Gardner said.
House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Rep. Fred Upton (R-Mich.) previously said approval of the measure would ensure a lifeline of natural gas to U.S. allies in Europe and supplant Russia’s influence.