Miller’s legislation seeks to bolster energy security of U.S. & allies

U.S. Rep. Carol Miller (R-WV) this week sponsored a bipartisan, bicameral bill that would enhance the energy security of the United States and its allies.

“Energy security is national security and focusing on the expansion of American energy exports will prevent NATO’s dependence on unreliable energy from our adversaries,” Rep. Miller said. “This legislation reaffirms our commitment to providing more efficient energy to our allies and secures our ability to be energy independent and dominant which will reduce fear and concerns over Europe’s reliance on Russian energy.” 

Specifically, the Energy Security Cooperation with Allied Partners in Europe (ESCAPE) Act of 2023, H.R. 1253, which U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX) cosponsored, would require the U.S. Secretary of Energy to expedite natural gas exports to America’s NATO allies, reduce the reliance on Russian energy, and mandate sanctions on all Russian pipelines, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.

“The ESCAPE Act will enable us to continue supporting our NATO allies with critical energy while reducing their reliance on Russia,” said Rep. Cuellar.

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) on Feb. 28 sponsored the same-named S. 548, which has 30 Republican cosponsors, including U.S. Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Steve Daines (R-MT), John Hoeven (R-ND), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Tim Scott (R-SC), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and John Thune (R-SD).

The ESCAPE Act was previously introduced during the 116th and 117th congresses, according to Rep. Miller’s office.