Congress will look to take up legislation addressing energy costs early in this Congress (119th).  In the previous Congress (118th), the House passed the bill (225-204), but it stalled in the Senate. This legislation focuses on two main priorities: increasing the production and export of American energy and reducing the regulatory burdens that make it harder to build American infrastructure and grow our economy. 

Bill sponsors argue the Lower Energy Costs Act will restore American energy independence by: 

• Increasing domestic energy production 
• Reforming the permitting process for all industries 
• Reversing anti-energy policies advanced by the Biden Administration 
• Streamlining energy infrastructure and exports 
• Boosting the production and processing of critical minerals 

"Republicans are once again showing that they plan to prioritize the needs of big oil and gas companies over the needs of the American people," said Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone (D-NJ) "It’s unfortunate because there are many Members on our side of the aisle who have voiced interest in durable, bipartisan solutions that would allow us to build more clean energy infrastructure to ensure we lead the world in the transition to a clean energy economy. This [legislation] demonstrates that’s not the approach this Republican majority is looking to take."

Critics argue that expanding oil, gas, and coal production is counterproductive to efforts to combat climate change, undermining commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Streamlining permitting processes might lead to less rigorous environmental reviews, increasing the risk of harm to ecosystems, water supplies, and air quality.

Simplifying permitting processes for energy projects could undermine important safeguards, leading to rushed approvals and inadequate mitigation measures for environmental impacts. Opponents fear this could disproportionately harm vulnerable communities, often located near industrial sites, facing increased pollution and health risks.

In addition, opponents of the Lower Energy Costs Act often advocate for a more balanced approach, combining short-term cost relief with long-term investments in clean energy, energy efficiency, and equitable access. They argue that such measures are essential for fostering economic resilience and environmental sustainability.