Why Senator Manchin and Senator Barrasso’s Permitting Reform Needs Opposition Now
The Energy Permitting Reform Act (S. 4753), proposed by Senators Joe Manchin and John Barrasso, has garnered significant attention for its potential impact on federal permitting processes. While it claims to streamline energy projects, this legislation contains provisions that are alarming for those committed to addressing the climate crisis. Title VI of the bill, in particular, poses a direct threat to U.S. climate goals by promoting liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports and undermining renewable energy progress. Here's why voices are urgently needed to oppose this legislation.
Why the Manchin/Barrasso Bill Threatens Climate Goals
The bill is not a simple permitting reform effort. Title VI specifically accelerates LNG export approvals, creating a cascade of harmful consequences:
1. Locks in Massive Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
If enacted, Title VI would result in 8.5–11.5 gigatons of lifecycle emissions through 2050, equivalent to operating 114–153 coal-fired power plants annually.
This is the opposite of the rapid phaseout of fossil fuels that is essential to combat the climate crisis.
2. Negates Any Renewable Energy Gains from Streamline Permitting:
The bill's LNG provisions would negate the climate benefits of constructing 72 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy transmission lines—equivalent to 25 major clean energy projects.
This rollback undermines progress toward clean energy transition.
3. Drives Up Natural Gas Prices for U.S. Households:
By prioritizing LNG exports, the legislation could increase U.S. natural gas prices, resulting in $600 billion in additional energy expenditures through 2050.
This would burden households and businesses while propping up fossil fuel industries.
4. Ensures we Can’t Meet Climate Commitments:
Title VI forces the Department of Energy to use outdated Trump-era climate calculations, bypassing more accurate assessments aligned with U.S. climate commitments. This erodes accountability and stalls progress.
For an explanation of how it does this, please see this assessment. foe.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Impacts-of-the-Manchin-Barrasso-Permitting-Bills-LNG-Provisions.pdf
Why Action Is Urgent
The Energy Permitting Reform Act represents a step backward at a critical juncture in the fight against climate change. This bill might not pass on its own but it could potentially be attached to a must-pass legislation, making it vital to register opposition now.
How You Can Help
It’s essential to make your voice heard by contacting your elected officials. Below is a guide to help you take action:
1. Contact U.S. Senators
Minnesota: Tina Smith and Amy Klobuchar:
Senator Tina Smith: (202) 224-5641
https://www.smith.senate.gov/share-your-opinion/
Senator Amy Klobuchar: (202) 224-3244
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/email-amy
Suggested Comment:
"I strongly oppose the Manchin-Barrasso Energy Permitting Reform Act (S. 4753), especially Title VI, which accelerates LNG exports and jeopardizes climate progress. Please oppose this bill and communicate to Majority Leader Chuck Schumer that any legislation containing these provisions is unacceptable."
2. Contact Your U.S. Representative:
While this is a Senate bill, it's critical to voice opposition to your Representative to prevent it from being inserted into broader legislation.
Find your Representative here. www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative
3. Spread the Word:
Share this information with your networks to amplify the message. The more voices raised, the greater the impact.
The Stakes Are Clear
The Manchin-Barrasso permitting reform bill prioritizes fossil fuels at a time when the world needs to accelerate its shift toward clean energy. Passing the Energy Permitting Reform Act would lock the U.S. into decades of reliance on fossil fuels, erase progress on renewable energy, and increase energy costs for Americans. The stakes are too high to remain silent.
Let your elected officials know that you oppose this harmful legislation and demand a stronger commitment to a sustainable, climate-resilient future.
Analysis of the LNG portion of the bill (Article VI) by Jeremy Symons. His early analysis; a report published two weeks ago, the "Status of U.S. LNG Export Permits and Associated Greenhouse Gas Emissions"
https://foe.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Impacts-of-the-Manchin-Barrasso-Permitting-Bills-LNG-Provisions.pdf
www.symonspa.com/post/report-status-of-u-s-lng-export-permits-and-associated-greenhouse-gas-emissions
