Congressman Lucas Supports House Energy and Jobs Legislation

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Frank Lucas today made the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed three separate pieces of legislation that promotes domestic energy production, creates jobs and cuts government red-tape. All three of the bills: H.R. 1965, the Federal Lands Jobs and Energy Security Act; H.R. 2728, the Protecting States’ Rights to Promote American Energy Security Act; and H.R. 1900, the Natural Gas Pipeline Permitting Reform Act, passed the House this week.

“I am pleased this legislation passed the House this week,” said Lucas. “These bills provide a tremendous opportunity to not only increase domestic energy production, but to also protect and create jobs. Additionally, this legislation cuts government red-tape to give the energy sector the resources needed to thrive.

“H.R. 1965, the Federal Lands Jobs and Energy Security Act would establish an efficient process to responsibly produce both renewable and conventional energy in the United States. For years, the Administration has delayed the process for approving permits to drill on federal land, while in-turn hindering domestic energy production. I am glad this legislation addresses this issue by ensuring the Interior Secretary sets a firm timeline to act on permits to drill.

“H.R. 1900, the Natural Gas Pipeline Permitting Reform Act would direct the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to approve or deny natural gas pipeline permit applications within one year. This is another instance of the House taking action to speed-up Administration decisions that are currently inhibiting business and energy production.

“H.R. 2728, the Protecting States’ Rights to Promote American Energy Security Act helps reduce bureaucratic red-tape by limiting the Administration’s ability to impose duplicative and burdensome federal regulations on hydraulic fracturing. I am pleased H.R. 2728 accomplishes this goal by prohibiting the Interior Department from enforcing federal regulations in states that already have their own regulations established.

“It is my hope that these bills will be sent to the U.S. Senate for passage and to the president’s desk for his signature. The State of Oklahoma has always been a leader in domestic energy production, and as the Representative of the Third Congressional District, I will continue to support legislation to help promote American energy production, eliminate government roadblocks, and foster a healthier economy.”

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