Rep. Keller introduces resolution affirming support of American oil, natural gas

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U.S. Rep. Fred Keller (R-PA) and 20 of his House Republican colleagues introduced legislation last week supporting the development of the American oil and natural gas industry.

Keller and his colleagues are calling for greater investments in American energy in response to rising gasoline costs in the United States, up to an average of $4.37 per gallon recently, and to increasing inflation.

“The Biden administration’s constant attacks on American energy producers have resulted in a historic energy crisis and rising prices for American families,” Keller said. “Instead of supporting American energy producers who are investing in clean, safe, and affordable energy development right here at home, President Biden is jeopardizing national security by draining the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to its lowest levels in nearly 20 years while begging adversarial nations and OPEC to increase fossil fuel production. This resolution reaffirms that American oil and natural gas are the answer to lowering energy costs, curbing runaway inflation, and rebuilding America’s strength at home and abroad.”

The resolution calls for repealing “administrative precedent” that limits exploration, drilling, and production of domestic natural resources on federal lands while defining the importance drilling has to the future of oil and natural production and incentivizing workforce development in the industry.

American energy supplier groups applauded the move.

“Congressman Keller’s House Resolution underscores two of the most significant challenges facing drilling contractors today; a depleted workforce and lack of federal support for sensible exploration and production policies,” Jason McFarland, President, International Association of Drilling Contractors, said in a statement. “Congress and the Administration need to recognize the serious issues facing industry and enact responsible policies that facilitate the energy addition the world needs.”

Some industry officials said the resolution is necessary to help consumers at the pump and at home.

“Americans are facing economic challenges unseen for a generation with record-setting inflation,” US Oil and Gas Association President Tim Stewart said. “The actions of the Biden Administration have only compounded the problems on many levels, but most evident of all is in the cost of energy.”