Pfluger Works to Rollback the 'Methane Rule' Hurting Energy Industry

WASHINGTON — In a move aimed at rolling back Biden administration environmental policies, Congressman August Pfluger, alongside Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) and Tracey Mann (KS-01), introduced a Congressional Review Act on Tuesday to overturn regulations imposed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on oil and gas producers.

The proposed regulation, known as the Methane Rule, has drawn strong criticism from Republicans who argue that it will impose excessive and costly restrictions on energy producers across the nation, particularly in regions like the Permian Basin. Congressman Pfluger voiced concerns about the economic impact, stating, "It will drive costs up even higher for all Americans already suffering under record-breaking inflation driven mostly by energy costs."

Rep. Arrington echoed these sentiments, labeling President Biden's energy policies as a threat to the economy and national security. "The overly broad and burdensome Methane Rule is yet another example of President Biden weaponizing the regulatory state to appease climate activists at the expense of the American people," he said, emphasizing potential job losses and increased energy prices.

Similarly, Rep. Mann criticized the rule as detrimental to both energy producers and consumers, asserting, "Americans don’t need more government overreach in their lives threatening their livelihoods."

Support for the resolution extends beyond Congress, with industry leaders condemning the EPA's regulatory approach. Ben Shepperd, President of the Permian Basin Petroleum Association, expressed gratitude for the legislative effort, describing the Methane Rule as poorly crafted and lacking environmental benefit.

Jeff Eshelman, President and CEO of the Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA), underscored the association's support for using the Congressional Review Act to address regulatory concerns. He criticized the EPA for disregarding alternative regulatory fixes and warned of the rule's potential impact on small oil and gas producers.

The resolution has garnered bipartisan support in the House, with cosponsors including Representatives Mike Collins (GA-10), Chip Roy (TX-21), Mary Miller (IL-15), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), John Moolenaar (MI-02), Lauren Boebert (CO-03), and David Rouzer (NC-07). A companion resolution is set to be introduced in the Senate by Senator Roger Marshall (KS) and Senator Steve Daines (MT).