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U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Dallas, co-wrote to President Joe Biden urging his administration to reverse its "misguided decision to pause pending approvals of liquefied natural gas exports," according to a news release from the congressman's office.
The letter, co-written by U.S. Reps. Guy Reschenthaler, R-Pittsburgh, and Lloyd Smucker, R-West Lampeter Township, along with U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, emphasizes the importance of natural gas to the nation's economy and national security, the news release said, as well as highlights the environmental benefits of the clean energy source.
"On an economic front, the U.S. natural gas industry directly supports more than 10 million American jobs and contributes nearly $1.8 trillion annually in U.S. gross domestic product," the news release said.
Related to national security, the letter argues that withholding approvals for LNG exports could potentially force allies into the hands of less stable and potentially adversarial suppliers, threatening both energy security and the nation's geopolitical standing. The letter also stresses that natural gas emits about 50 to 60% less carbon dioxide (CO2) than other fossil fuels, and "should be embraced, not vilified, by an administration wanting to reduce carbon emissions."
"By fostering a robust natural gas industry, we stimulate investment, enhance domestic manufacturing, and create well-paying jobs across various sectors -- all while protecting our national security and bolstering strategic alliances," the letter states, according to the news release. "LNG export projects are indispensable for ensuring that we continue to function as the economic 'arsenal of democracy' throughout geopolitical incidents such as the war in Ukraine.
"A reversal of the pause on LNG export applications is not just a strategic imperative but also an economic necessity, ensuring the continued prosperity of our nation," it continues. "We urge the White House to swiftly correct course and reconsider its ill-conceived decision to further hinder America's ability to be energy dominant."