By Congresswoman Stephanie Bice
Upstream oil and gas activities support over 278,000 jobs in Oklahoma and contribute billions of dollars to our economy. Across the country, modern drilling technology has been a game-changer, unlocking vast reserves of oil and natural gas that have made the United States the world leader in natural gas and oil production. According to the America First Policy Institute, hydraulic fracturing alone saves American consumers $203 billion annually in reduced energy costs. These savings directly benefit hardworking families, small businesses, and industries that rely on affordable energy to remain competitive in the global market.
Despite the undeniable benefits of modern drilling techniques, the previous administration sought to restrict, delay, and even ban critical energy production methods. On his very first day in office, President Biden canceled the Keystone XL pipeline, eliminating thousands of American jobs. His administration suspended oil and gas leases on federal lands, obstructed energy infrastructure projects, and imposed burdensome regulations that drove up energy prices for consumers.
What is important to remember is that the argument against updated drilling technology is built on misinformation. Even under the Obama administration, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found no widespread, systemic impacts of hydraulic fracturing on our resources. The truth is that modern drilling techniques are safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible. Instead of vilifying domestic energy production, we should be championing the innovations that made the United States an energy superpower.
If a future president were to impose a unilateral ban on hydraulic fracturing, the consequences would be disastrous. Studies shown that such a ban would cause a staggering $670.5 billion decline in GDP across key energy-producing states by 2040. Additionally, job losses would exceed 350,000 annually, devastating families and communities that depend on the energy sector for their livelihoods. Without domestic energy production, the United States would be forced to rely on foreign adversaries, making us vulnerable on the world stage.
That is why the passage of H.R. 26, the Protecting American Energy Protection Act, was critical. We are working to ensure that no president can unilaterally impose a ban on hydraulic fracturing without Congressional approval. This legislation also reaffirms the rights of states to regulate energy production on state and private lands, preventing federal overreach from bureaucrats in Washington who have little understanding of the needs of energy-producing communities. By passing this bill, we have sent a clear message: America comes first.
Energy security is national security. House Republicans are committed to unleashing American energy dominance, lowering costs for families, and ensuring that our nation remains energy-independent for generations to come. The passage of H.R. 26 is a critical step in that fight. This is a victory for American workers, American jobs, and American energy.
