WASHINGTON, D.C.—Christopher Guith, vice president of Policy at the U.S. Chamber’s Institute for 21st Century Energy, issued the following statement upon passage of H.R. 2728, the “Protecting States’ Rights to Promote American Energy Security Act”:
“Today’s vote in the House sends a strong signal against federal government interference in America’s most promising economic opportunity: energy development. Shale energy development is fueling an American manufacturing renaissance and is already responsible for more than 2.1 million jobs—with a total of 3.9 million jobs expected by 2025.
“Unfortunately, this renaissance is threatened by Bureau of Land Management rules that would add an additional layer of federal regulation to energy development, even in states that already have aggressive and effective regulations. Given the unique geologic and physical nuances across the country, state regulators can more effectively regulate energy production.
“H.R. 2728 will prohibit federal regulation of shale development within the borders of states and tribal areas that have regulations in place. We appreciate the support of a bipartisan majority of House members and look forward to working with Congress to ensure a policy framework that will allow our nation to take full advantage of our energy opportunities.”
The mission of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Institute for 21st Century Energy is to unify policymakers, regulators, business leaders, and the American public behind a common sense energy strategy to help keep America secure, prosperous, and clean. Through policy development, education, and advocacy, the Institute is building support for meaningful action at the local, state, national, and international levels.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.