Republicans on the House Oversight Committee are accusing the Biden-Harris administration of withholding a crucial study to justify its freeze on natural gas export permits. In January, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced a halt on liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects pending further study of their environmental and economic impacts. GOP leaders, however, claim the DOE completed such a study in 2023, which reportedly favored continued exports.
Committee members, led by Rep. James Comer (R-KY) and Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA), wrote to Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm demanding the DOE release all documents tied to the analysis. They allege the DOE’s refusal to provide information is evidence of a cover-up to support the administration’s anti-fossil fuel policies.
Attorney Chris Horner, representing Government Accountability & Oversight, criticized the DOE’s response, calling it a “full-blown scandal.” Horner accused the agency of reinterpreting a records request to avoid disclosing the study. He claims the DOE’s hidden report touted the benefits of LNG exports, contradicting the moratorium imposed earlier this year.
This freeze on LNG projects has stirred criticism from Republicans, industry leaders, and security officials. Many argue that limiting LNG exports hinders economic growth and job creation. A study from the American Petroleum Institute indicated that removing export restrictions could add $73 billion to the U.S. economy and generate 453,000 jobs by 2040.
