U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) co-introduced bipartisan legislation on Tuesday that would increase exports of liquified natural gas (LNG) and crude oil.
The Energizing American Shipbuilding Act would require vessels built in the United States to transport 10 percent of seaborne crude oil exports by 2035 and 15 percent of seaborne LNG exports by 2043.
“From Philadelphia to Erie, Pennsylvania shipyards have produced many of the vessels that have made our maritime industry and our Navy strong,” Casey said. “Requiring an increasing share of natural gas and oil exports to be transported aboard American-built, American-crewed ships is an investment in our national defense, the economic competitiveness of American shipbuilders and mariners, and the communities they call home.”
If the bill becomes law, it is expected to boost the domestic vessel component manufacturing and maritime industries, spur ships construction, and support shipyard jobs.
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS), Senate Armed Services Committee ranking member, co-introduced the bill.
“Energy security is national security,” Wicker said. “There is a global energy demand and if the United States’ does not step up to the plate, our adversaries will fill the void. The United States — and Mississippi — can lead the way.”
U.S. Reps. John Garamendi (D-CA) and Rob Wittman (R-VA) introduced a companion bill in the U.S. House of Representatives.