Protecting American Energy Production Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding me time.

Absolutely, living in the heart of Marcellus and Utica shale, I have seen hydrofracking actually evolve and improve with the technology becoming environmentally friendly. My friends who would argue against it obviously have not had the opportunity to spend any time with it.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 26, the Protecting American Energy Production Act. This legislation will ensure that we deliver on our promise to Americans to lower energy costs and end the war that the previous administration waged on our domestic energy production.

I have witnessed firsthand how fracking or hydrofracking has revitalized communities, created countless jobs, and strengthened our energy independence since the discovery of the Marcellus shale and the Utica shale in Pennsylvania. Across my district, this industry has been a lifeline, bringing economic prosperity where it once was scarce.

Fracking has transformed Pennsylvania into a national leader in energy production, unlocking vast reserves of natural gas that power our homes, fuel our businesses, and drive down our energy costs. Across the Commonwealth, once struggling communities are thriving again.

Small businesses flourish as demand for goods and services surges, and thousands of hardworking men and women who depend on energy production for family-sustaining wages are planting roots and investing in these communities.

Beyond local benefits, the energy boom we will experience under the Trump administration's America First policies will strengthen our position on the world stage. By tapping into our domestic resources, we reduce reliance on foreign energy, bolstering national security and stabilizing global markets. American natural gas significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to foreign production, proving that economic growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

Despite these undeniable benefits, out-of-touch politicians have sought to ban or heavily restrict this essential industry.

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Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. A prohibition on fracking would devastate rural America, wiping out jobs, reducing tax revenues, and driving up energy costs for working families.

Madam Speaker, we cannot allow misguided policies to erase the progress we have made. That is why I urge my colleagues to support the Protecting American Energy Production Act before us today which will ensure the long-term stability of fracking for years to come.

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