Baton Rouge Reporter

U.S. Congressman Garret Graves' legislation aimed at restoring America's energy independence has made significant progress as it advanced through the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee. Graves expressed his concerns about the Biden Administration's energy policies, which he believes are detrimental to the country.

Graves pointed out that the current administration has set records by blocking new American offshore energy projects and proposing fewer offshore oil and gas leases than any previous president. As a result, the United States has become more reliant on energy produced outside its borders. Graves emphasized the consequences of these policies, stating, "Utility bills and gasoline at the pump are unaffordable because President Biden is blocking American energy projects."

The congressman further criticized the administration by highlighting the benefits of their policies for other countries. He stated, "If you are Russia, China, Iran, Venezuela, or others, these are great policies. If you are an American, it's a disaster." Graves stressed the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that the president should prioritize lowering gas prices, utility costs, and emissions without needing an act of Congress.

To address these concerns, Graves introduced the BRIDGE Production Act, which aims to ensure the continued supply of offshore energy. The legislation would require the administration to hold 10 lease sales over the next five years. The congressman noted that since the bill's introduction in September, the Biden Administration released a proposal for only three oil and gas lease sales between 2025 and 2029, the lowest in history. Prior to this, the administration had allowed the national offshore oil and gas leasing plan to expire.

Graves underscored the significance of offshore lease sales for the state of Louisiana, as they generate revenue for coastal restoration, hurricane protection, and flood control projects. Under the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA), Louisiana receives a portion of the revenue, which is exclusively allocated to resiliency investments. However, the Biden Administration's disregard for domestic energy production puts these funding sources at risk, making Louisianians more vulnerable.

"It is important to highlight this isn't just about skyrocketing energy costs. Blocking our energy production slashes funding for flood control, coastal restoration, and hurricane protection. We can't let that happen," Graves emphasized.

The advancement of Graves' legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives signifies a growing concern about the impact of the Biden Administration's energy policies on American energy independence and the welfare of the nation. The congressman's efforts to prioritize American energy production and job creation are crucial steps toward protecting the country's interests and ensuring a secure energy future.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://garretgraves.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/graves-legislation-stop-biden-administrations-war-american-energy-has