Congressional leaders from both parties are in negotiations on House Majority Leader Steve Scalise “Lower Energy Costs Act” which supporters say would restore energy independence instead of relying on foreign countries. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves – who wrote the energy permitting section of the bill – is hopeful that with some modifications it will pass in the House.
“The foundation of this bill is rock solid. It returns us back to American dependence to address American energy needs.”
Graves says the energy bill would mandate offshore lease sales; streamline permitting processes; and increase state shares of the federal government’s royalties for offshore oil and gas production and wind farms.
“Creating more jobs, making our communities safer, increasing energy security, and providing economic activity – this is really a win win win for Louisiana.”
A recent energy outlook by the Department of Energy showed there will be an increase in global demand for oil and gas and an increase in global demand for renewable energy and critical minerals in the next several years. Graves says there are some outstanding concerns, including offshore oil and wind in the Gulf of Mexico.
“In the offshore Gulf of Mexico, you have the second cleanest oil and gas sources in the world. Why would you not want to use those sources of energy to meet global demand?”
A House committee is scheduled to meet this week to choose which amendments will be considered.
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