Today, House Committee on Natural Resources Ranking Member Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) joined House Minority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) in introducing the American Energy First Act, a bill that empowers states to manage energy development within their borders and encourages efficient onshore and offshore production of both conventional and renewable energy resources.

"Every American has felt the negative effects of the Biden administration’s actions on energy. People from coast to coast are experiencing the highest gas prices in years and the loss of dependable, good-paying jobs in the energy sector," Westerman said. "Politically-motivated actions against oil and gas affect our lives and livelihoods, impacting everything from electric bills to national security. We cannot continue putting America last when it comes to energy development and production. This is why I’m honored to be introducing the American Energy First Act today with Congressman Scalise. It’s essential legislation that ensures economic growth and domestic energy security by empowering states to manage their energy resources, both conventional and renewable, ensuring everyone has equal access to reliable, affordable energy."

"For decades, America has been a world leader in energy production and exploration by embracing an all-of-the-above energy strategy, yet due to President Biden’s disastrous policies, we have witnessed an all-out assault on American energy that jeopardizes our security," Scalise said. "The American Energy First Act invests in America’s energy future by opening up more areas to energy exploration, encouraging alternative sources of energy like wind, solar, and geothermal, and cutting red tape to lower the cost of energy for hard-working families. Part of this exploration includes the establishment of a new revenue sharing program for offshore wind development. This new system will ensure that states like Louisiana receive our fair share from this emerging domestic industry. Additionally, this bill guarantees that future presidents cannot impose devastating moratoriums on energy production like we saw earlier this year from the Biden Administration. I’m proud to join with Ranking Member Westerman to introduce this important bill, and I hope all members will support this common sense, all-of-the-above energy approach."

Background

Federal regulations have burdened both conventional and renewable energy development on federal lands and waters due to unnecessary permitting delays and regulatory red tape. Streamlining the leasing and permitting process will make federal lands and waters more competitive, create good-paying jobs in the energy sector and increase access to reliable, affordable energy for all Americans.

The American Energy First Act is a commonsense approach to a true all-of-the-above domestic energy strategy. 

Read the full bill here and a section-by-section breakdown here.