173401-1538A738X if we want to increase our energy independence as a nation, we must open up our land to fracking, and that starts by passing the Protecting American Energy Production Act (H.R. 26) through the House of Representatives en route to President Trump’s desk. The measure passed by a 226-188 count, with 16 Democrats voting in favor alongside Republicans.
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Learn to understand the Protecting American Energy Production Act
H.R. 26, sponsored by Rep. August Pfluger (R-Texas), would:
Limit Executive Power: No moratorium without Congress — The bill bars the president from declaring a moratorium on fracking without clear authorization from Congress.
Affirm State Control — It reaffirms that states should take the lead in regulating the oil and gas drilling practices implemented in their states.
With this action, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that our energy production levels remain steady so that the economic dividends of oil and gas continue to flow.
The Political Backdrop: A Bipartisan Push
The passage marked a rare show of bipartisan cooperation as more than a dozen Democrats joined Republicans in voting for the measure.
Both sides recognize the importance of energy production and both sides want to know every executive action that has been enacted to finally get a process which limits what the president can do on energy policy.
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Repercussions for the Energy Industry
If passed, this bill might have a number of important effects:
Energy Security:
The bill appears to want to ensure a dependable supply of domestic energy that does not rely on foreign oil and gas by putting unilateral executive action against fracking outside the reach of the White House.
Economic Stability:
The oil and gas sector is a significant pillar that sustains the U.S. economy. Fracking operations could be protected and with them, the jobs and revenue associated with this industry.
Environmental Concerns:
Fracking has been an issue in which environmental concerns have clouded the debate. Environmental groups pushing for stricter regulations or bans of fracking practices might oppose this legislation.
What Comes Next: The Role of the Senate
The measure, however, now faces a future in the Senate after being passed by the House. The legislation will have to be considered and voted on by the Senate before it can move forward.
While this bill might pass Congress,
even as it currently stands there are concerns about its passage in the Senate with its current political composition which would require both negotiation and bipartisanship for the bill to find its way to the floor of the House and the Senate.
Conclusion
House passage of the “Protecting American Energy Production Act” is a turning point for U.S. energy policy. By aiming to limit executive authority on fracking moratoriums, the legislation underscores Congress’ and states’ role in regulating energy.
The bill heads to the Senate, where various stakeholders from the energy industry and environmental advocacy groups will keep a close eye on its trajectory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is hydraulic fracturing (fracking)?
Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is a method of extracting oil and natural gas from rock formations deep underground. In the process, a high-pressure mixture of fluids is injected into the rock, causing it to fracture and enabling the oil or gas to flow to the production well.
Q2: What’s the controversy over fracking?
Fracking is a controversial method of extracting natural gas that increases the risk of pollution of water and wetlands, seismic instability, and methane emissions: a powerful greenhouse gas.
Supporters say it promotes energy independence and economic development, while critics warn of environmental and public health hazards.
Q3: What happens next for the Protecting American Energy Production Act?
After passing the House, the bill will go to the Senate for a vote. The bill next goes to the President for a signature into law, if approved by the Senate. Once drafted, the bill then comes to the legislative process where it is debated, possibly amended, and finally approved.
The Act is known as Protecting American Energy Production Act.
