WASHINGTON, DC . . .This week, Congressman Ralph Hall (TX-04) supported three pro-energy bills to strengthen America’s economy and boost much-needed job creation. The bills – the North American Energy Infrastructure Act, the Domestic Property and Global Freedom Act, and the Lowering Gasoline Prices to Fuel an America That Works Act – all passed with bipartisan support.

“Many Americans continue to struggle under a weak economy, and my constituents’ top priorities remain job creation and economic growth,” said Hall. “In light of this week’s second revision of the first quarter Gross Domestic Product (GDP) that saw a 2.9% contraction – the worst in five years – the President should join House efforts to increase energy production and exports. Not only would these bipartisan energy bills boost jobs and the economy, but they would also lower energy costs and increase America’s global security during a time of increasing political unrest in the Middle East and Eastern Europe.”

“Jobs and energy go hand in hand, which is why I am proud to promote these solutions to create a better and stronger America.”

Summary of bills (Congressional Quarterly):

• H.R. 6, Domestic Property and Global Freedom Act (Rep. Hall is an original co-sponsor of this bill)
  The bill requires the Energy Department to expedite decisions on applications to export liquefied natural gas (LNG), requiring that a decision on pending applications be made within 90 days of the bill's enactment or the close of the application's public comment period, whichever is later.

• H.R. 3301, North American Energy Infrastructure Act
  The bill establishes a new system for the approval and permitting of oil and gas pipelines and electrical transmission lines that cross the U.S. borders into Canada and Mexico, eliminating the current system created by executive orders under which a presidential permit must be issued.

• H.R. 4899, Lowering Gasoline Prices to Fuel and America That Works Act
  The bill combines two measures that passed in 2013 to increase domestic oil and gas production on federal lands and in offshore waters. Among its provisions, it requires that at least 25% of eligible federal land be made available each year for leasing; streamlines the process for approving drilling permits; requires the Interior Department to make available for oil and gas exploration and development at least 50% of the unleased coastal areas that have the most potential for energy production; and requires that drilling be allowed more immediately off the coasts of California, South Carolina and Virginia.

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