Pallone Highlights Potential Dangers of Proposed LNG Project Off of the New Jersey Coast

Press Release

Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), the Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, submitted a statement expressing his opposition to the proposed plan to build an offshore liquefied natural gas port 24 miles off the coast of Long Branch, New Jersey. In his statement, which was submitted at a public hearing held on the issue, Pallone highlighted the potential dangers that the proposed Liberty Natural Gas (LNG) Port Ambrose terminal poses to New Jersey's ocean and coastline, which work as crucial economic engines for the state.

"With the Jersey Shore still recovering from Superstorm Sandy, we cannot risk another blow to our coast from a liquefied natural gas spill," said Congressman Pallone. "This past summer, New Jersey had a strong beach season, with local residents and tourists alike showing their Jersey pride by patronizing local businesses and enjoying our replenished beaches. Just imagine what a blow it would be to that recovery if a spill were to occur."

Congressman Pallone, who has fought against offshore oil and gas drilling throughout his career and worked successfully to end ocean dumping, urged concerned citizens at the public hearing to continue to stand up against the industrialization of the Jersey Shore.

"Instead of focusing on industrial uses of the ocean, our country and the State of New Jersey should be encouraging the use of renewable energy resources," added Pallone. "Any energy development in the Atlantic should be from renewable sources, such as wind power, and not polluting fossil fuels."

Tonight's hearing was a part of the public comment period on the issue, which has been extended by 30 days, until March 16th, in order to give residents more time to voice their concerns regarding the proposed terminal. In 2011, Governor Chris Christie (R-NJ) vetoed a similar plan for an LNG terminal to be built off of the New Jersey coast.

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