LNG Export Security Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Cornyn, John [R-TX]
- Committees
- Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 13, 2026
Bottom line
This bill redefines "public interest" in the Natural Gas Act to explicitly prioritize natural gas development, domestic economic interests, and national security, potentially streamlining LNG export approvals and other natural gas infrastructure projects.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Natural Gas Act to explicitly define "public interest" as requiring consideration of the development of natural gas facilities and domestic natural gas supply, domestic economic interests, and national security interests. This statutory definition would guide federal regulators, such as the Department of Energy and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, when reviewing projects like liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminals and pipelines.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill provides essential clarity and consistency for regulatory agencies, ensuring that critical energy infrastructure projects are evaluated with a clear focus on national energy security and economic benefits, which are vital for the nation's prosperity, job creation, and geopolitical standing in a volatile global energy market.
Opponents contend
Opponents contend that by explicitly listing only certain factors, the bill implicitly narrows the scope of "public interest," potentially sidelining other crucial considerations such as environmental protection, climate change impacts, and local community health and safety, leading to less comprehensive and balanced regulatory decisions.
The bill text is extremely short and easy to read, allowing ample time for a thorough evaluation of its implications.
Section 2, amending Section 2 of the Natural Gas Act (15 U.S.C. 717a)
Definition of "Public Interest" for Natural Gas Act
This provision adds a new definition to the Natural Gas Act, specifying that "public interest" must include consideration of the development of natural gas facilities and domestic supply, domestic economic interests, and national security interests. This explicitly codifies factors that federal regulators, primarily the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the Department of Energy (DOE), must weigh when evaluating projects like LNG export terminals and pipelines, potentially influencing the speed and criteria for project approvals.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this definition provides necessary clarity and consistency for regulatory agencies, ensuring that critical energy infrastructure projects are evaluated with a clear focus on national energy security and economic benefits, which are vital for the nation's prosperity and geopolitical standing. They contend it will help reduce regulatory uncertainty and accelerate projects that are in the national interest.
Critics contend
Critics contend that by explicitly listing only certain factors, the bill implicitly excludes or diminishes other crucial considerations, such as environmental protection, climate change impacts, and local community health and safety, potentially leading to less comprehensive and balanced regulatory decisions that favor industry over broader public welfare.
Tradeoffs
The bill navigates the tension between promoting energy security and economic growth through natural gas development and exports, versus addressing environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and local community concerns. It prioritizes certain aspects of the 'public interest' over others, reflecting a policy choice about national priorities.