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LNG Public Interest Determination Act of 2025
2/11/2025, 12:53 PM
Summary of Bill HR 381
The bill requires that these factors be carefully evaluated before any decisions are made regarding the exportation of natural gas. This means that the potential effects on the environment, as well as the costs to consumers and the overall stability of the climate, must be thoroughly examined before any exportation plans are approved.
In addition to these requirements, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to the exportation of natural gas. This includes ensuring that the public interest is prioritized in any decisions made regarding the exportation of natural gas, and that the potential impacts on the environment and consumers are taken into account. Overall, Bill 119 hr 381 seeks to ensure that the exportation of natural gas is done in a way that is mindful of its potential impacts on climate stability, consumer energy costs, and environmental justice. By requiring these factors to be considered in the decision-making process, the bill aims to promote responsible and sustainable practices in the natural gas industry.
Congressional Summary of HR 381
LNG Public Interest Determination Act of 2025
This bill modifies and expands requirements for exporting natural gas, including liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Under the existing provisions of the Natural Gas Act, exporters of natural gas must obtain authorization to make such exports from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Additionally, FERC must authorize such exports if they are consistent with the public interest.
The bill directs exporters of natural gas to obtain authorization from the Department of Energy (DOE) rather than from FERC. Before granting an authorization, DOE must determine that the export would not likely (1) contribute significantly to climate change; (2) materially increase energy prices or energy price volatility for U.S. consumers; or (3) create a disproportionate health or environmental burden on rural, low-income, minority, and other vulnerable communities.
The bill also classifies an authorization of the exportation of natural gas as a major federal action that triggers the environmental review process required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA).
Additionally, the bill terminates the categorical exclusion for exports of natural gas, and any associated transportation of LNG by marine vessels, from NEPA environmental review requirements. A categorical exclusion is a class of actions that a federal agency has determined do not significantly affect the quality of the human environment and, thus, do not require either an environmental assessment nor an environmental impact statement.
