H.R.381 - LNG Public Interest Determination Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 381, the LNG Public Interest Determination Act of 2025, aims to amend the Natural Gas Act by adding considerations for climate stability, consumer energy costs, and environmental justice when determining whether proposed natural gas exports are in the public interest. The bill mandates that the Secretary of Energy assess the impact of natural gas exports on climate change, energy prices, and vulnerable communities before approving export applications. It also emphasizes public participation and terminates a categorical exclusion related to natural gas exports.
Expected Effects
The bill would likely lead to stricter scrutiny of natural gas export applications. This could potentially slow down or prevent some export projects. It also aims to ensure that environmental and social costs are adequately considered alongside economic benefits.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced environmental protection through climate change impact assessments.
- Protection of vulnerable communities by assessing environmental justice impacts.
- Increased public participation in energy policy decisions.
- Potential stabilization of domestic energy prices for consumers.
- Promotion of cleaner energy alternatives by considering the impact on renewable energy investments.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential delays or cancellations of natural gas export projects, impacting the energy industry.
- Increased regulatory burden and compliance costs for energy companies.
- Possible negative impacts on international trade relationships related to natural gas exports.
- Uncertainty in the energy market due to stricter approval processes.
- Potential for increased energy costs if export restrictions lead to decreased supply.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is complex. Congress has the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). However, the extent to which environmental and social considerations can be used to restrict commerce is subject to interpretation. The Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause could be relevant if export restrictions significantly diminish the value of private property. The emphasis on public participation aligns with principles of democratic governance, though not explicitly mandated in this context by the Constitution.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).