4 versions

CosmeticWhat changed in REFERRED IN SENATEcompared with ENGROSSED IN HOUSE (Nov 20, 2025)

Technical corrections only. The only changes between v3 and v4 are administrative, specifically the addition of the Clerk's name in the attestation and the update to reflect the bill's referral to the Senate. There is no substantive policy change to the text of the bill.

H.R. 3109119th CongressIntroduced Apr 30, 2025

REFINER Act

Passed HouseEnergySubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Rep. Latta, Robert E. [R-OH-5]
Committees: Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
Last action: Dec 1, 2025

Bottom line

The REFINER Act requires a federal report on U.S. petrochemical refinery capacity and recommendations for its expansion, aiming to inform policy decisions on energy security and fuel affordability.

What it actually does

This bill mandates the Secretary of Energy to direct the National Petroleum Council to produce and publicly release a comprehensive report within 90 days of enactment. The report must examine the role of U.S. petrochemical refineries in energy security, analyze capacity and expansion opportunities, assess government actions impacting capacity, and recommend ways to increase refinery capacity.

Proponents argue

Supporters argue this bill is crucial for understanding and strengthening the United States' energy security and independence. By requiring a detailed report from industry experts, it will provide policymakers with actionable data and recommendations to ensure a reliable and affordable supply of liquid fuels and feedstocks, protecting consumers and national interests from supply chain vulnerabilities.

Opponents contend

Critics might contend that mandating a report from the National Petroleum Council, an industry advisory body, could lead to recommendations biased towards industry interests rather than broader public or environmental concerns. They may also argue that the focus on increasing petrochemical refinery capacity could undermine efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources and address climate change, potentially locking in fossil fuel infrastructure.

The bill text is very short and straightforward, allowing for a quick and easy understanding of its core directive.

Section 2

Mandate for a Report on Petrochemical Refineries

prominently featuredstraightforward

This section requires the Secretary of Energy to instruct the National Petroleum Council to compile and submit a report to both the Secretary and Congress within 90 days. The report must analyze the importance of U.S. petrochemical refineries for energy security, assess their current and potential capacity, identify government policies that may have reduced capacity, and propose recommendations to boost refinery capacity. The report must also be made publicly available.

GroupImpactMechanismScale

GroupDepartment of EnergyImpactAdministrative burden and directiveMechanismRequired to direct the National Petroleum Council to produce a report.ScaleModerate, involving coordination and oversight of a report.

GroupNational Petroleum CouncilImpactMandated task and resource allocationMechanismRequired to conduct research, analysis, and produce a comprehensive report.ScaleSignificant, requiring expertise and time from council members.

GroupPetrochemical refinery industryImpactIncreased scrutiny and potential policy influenceMechanismTheir operations and capacity are the subject of the report, potentially leading to new regulations or incentives.ScaleBroad, affecting future investment and operational decisions.

GroupU.S. ConsumersImpactPotential impact on fuel affordability and supply reliabilityMechanismThe report's recommendations could influence policies affecting the cost and availability of liquid fuels.ScaleIndirect, but potentially widespread.

Supporters argue

Supporters argue that this provision is essential for evidence-based policymaking regarding a critical sector of the U.S. economy and energy infrastructure. By gathering data and expert recommendations, Congress can better address challenges to energy security, ensure stable fuel supplies, and promote economic growth through a robust refining sector.

Critics contend

Opponents might argue that relying on an industry-led council for such a report could result in a biased assessment that prioritizes industry expansion over environmental protection or public health. They may also suggest that the focus on increasing capacity could divert attention and resources from renewable energy development.

Tradeoffs

This provision balances the need for comprehensive data and expert input on energy security with concerns about potential industry bias in policy recommendations. It also highlights the tension between supporting existing fossil fuel infrastructure and advancing cleaner energy transitions.

About this analysis. AI-Generated from the official bill text and available committee reports. Gaps in available data are noted explicitly. Verify important details with the official Congress.gov record.