Houston Daily

Today, Congressman Wesley Hunt introduced the Protect LNG Act of 2025. The bill aims to advance national energy interests by limiting litigation that could hinder American energy projects.

In April 2024, several liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects received final approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). However, these approvals were challenged in court and halted in August 2024.

The Protect LNG Act of 2025 seeks to address litigation related to environmental reviews under the Natural Gas Act or the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for covered facilities. The act specifies that such litigation should not invalidate any permit, license, or approval issued to a facility involved in the legal proceedings. Instead, it mandates that courts remand matters to relevant federal agencies for resolution without vacating permits.

Additionally, except for Supreme Court reviews, jurisdiction over litigation regarding orders issued by federal agencies concerning covered applications will reside with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the circuit where a facility is located. This court must expedite reviews and prioritize actions on its docket soon after initial pleadings are filed.

The legislation also limits judicial review periods for permits, licenses, or approvals issued by federal agencies to 90 days following notice publication in the Federal Register.

Rep. Hunt emphasized natural gas's potential impact: “Natural gas is the most impactful green initiative on the planet—it has the power to lift entire nations and communities out of poverty.” He criticized opposition efforts: “Yet sadly, natural gas and LNG have been weaponized by the radical left and the climate cartel, driving up energy costs for hardworking Americans—just as we’re still reeling from the disastrous effects of Biden-flation.”

He added his commitment: “I’m proud to lead Senator Cruz’s effort in the House to strengthen our domestic LNG industry and ensure it provides the energy security and economic strength our nation needs.”