Washington D.C. – U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) has joined Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Congressman August Pfluger (R-Texas), and a group of Republican lawmakers in introducing the Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act, a bill aimed at streamlining the approval process for liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminals.
The proposed legislation seeks to shift the permitting authority for LNG export terminal construction from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Proponents argue that this change will reduce bureaucratic delays and help bolster American energy production.
Senator Britt emphasized the bill’s role in strengthening national security and energy independence. “American national security starts with American energy dominance. This legislation to streamline the permitting process for LNG export terminals is a critical step in implementing President Trump’s America First energy agenda so foreign customers don’t turn to other suppliers, including our adversaries,” she stated.
Supporters of the bill have criticized the Biden administration’s pause on new LNG export permits, asserting that it hindered economic growth and placed constraints on U.S. energy exports. Senator Scott echoed these concerns, stating that reliance on foreign energy sources undermines American interests.
Congressman Pfluger also spoke in favor of the bill, arguing that removing the DOE’s export authorization requirement would promote efficiency and improve U.S. energy security. “Energy security is national security,” he said.
Senator Britt has previously raised concerns about the potential benefits foreign adversaries may gain from limiting U.S. LNG exports. A report from 2024 indicated that European Union countries increased their LNG imports from Russia, a development some lawmakers attribute to restrictions on U.S. energy exports.
The Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act is part of broader Republican efforts to reverse energy policies implemented over the past four years. Last month, Senator Britt voted with her colleagues to block the Biden administration’s Natural Gas Tax, which was introduced as part of the Inflation Reduction Act. The resolution now awaits President Trump’s approval.
The bill’s future will depend on Congressional debate and potential bipartisan support as lawmakers continue to discuss the balance between environmental policies and energy independence.
