Washington D.C. — House Energy and Commerce Committee Member Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX) delivered the following opening remarks at today’s field hearing in Port Arthur, Texas, on President Biden’s LNG export ban. 

IMPACT OF LNG ON SOUTHEAST TEXAS

“It is great to be in Southeast Texas today with the Energy and Commerce Committee, and it is going to be a good afternoon to highlight the Energy Capital of the World and soon to be the LNG hub for the United States.

“Thank you, Chairman Duncan, the Energy and Commerce Staff, and my team for organizing this timely and important field hearing today to talk about the positive impacts that LNG facilities play in a community, like Port Arthur, and especially how the reckless decision by President Biden will have a ripple effect throughout our great district in Southeast Texas.

“Everyone who has gathered here today knows firsthand how critical the LNG industry is to Port Arthur, families, and small business owners. It is critical for the economic development of this great city, and it's critical for the next generation currently studying at Lamar State College Port Arthur to pursue a career in the LNG industry.

“And guess what? These critical investments will disappear with Joe Biden's LNG export ban.

“Just a few miles away from here is the home of Port Arthur LNG and Golden Pass LNG, both of which provide THOUSANDS of direct jobs and BILLIONS of dollars back into our community.

“I would be remiss if I did not mention Cheniere LNG, a stone's throw across the border in that other foreign country, Louisiana, which also employs Texans.

“My district is also home to Freeport LNG, located in Brazoria country, where these investments benefit the communities there.”

BIDEN’S ATTACK ON AMERICAN LNG

"Joe Biden's ban directly jeopardizes Port Arthur LNG, which broke ground on construction last month. They have been fully approved for their Phase One project and will hire upwards of 6,000 jobs with more than 100 contracts with local vendors for construction valued at more than $160 million.

“When the ban was announced, they were in the process of applying through the permits and approvals process for Phase Two, which is an expansion that would help meet future demand for U.S. LNG supplies for Europe, Asia, and other global markets.

“This abrupt, politically-motivated ban brings this project to a screeching halt. This ban will cost Southeast Texas thousands of jobs and hurt businesses that rely on projects like these.”

LNG PROJECTS LIFT UP COMMUNITIES

“Today, we want to highlight how Lamar State College Port Arthur has been able to start a program here to teach and equip the next generation of LNG workers.

“These LNG companies have donated money, given scholarships, and partnered with local colleges and high schools.

“We want to highlight the investments that LNG companies are making to restore marine habitats, improve infrastructure like highways and bridges, not to mention the work they do in the community, like donating meals, gifts, and partnering with local groups for projects.

“I could go on and on about the positive role these companies play in our community and our entire nation.

“While this administration and some of my colleagues in Congress are demonizing American LNG without any regard for the countless benefits it brings, I trust this hearing today will bring some reality to them.

“It is a reality that American LNG leads to American energy dominance, American jobs, and American leadership overseas.

“I want to thank each of the witnesses for taking time out of their busy lives to share their perspectives with the Committee today. And thank you to all the familiar faces in the crowd for being here.”