Congressman Williams Speaks on Behalf of Energy Bill, H.R. 2910

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin) took to the House floor on Wednesday to speak during the rule debate on H.R. 2910, the Promoting Interagency Coordination for Review of Natural Gas Pipelines Act.

"Mr. Speaker, I'd like to take this time to speak on behalf of H.R. 2910, Promoting Interagency Coordination for Review of Natural Gas Pipelines Act and the potential impact it could have on our nation.

"Right now, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, or FERC, is the lead agency for coordinating required reviews and authorizations for interstate natural gas pipelines.

"In order to start a pipeline project, you need multiple permits from a variety of platforms, as well as coordination from federal, state and local governments.

"As history has shown us time and time again, a multi-step approval process just does not work.

"Mixing three different levels of government has and always will be a recipe for disaster. It makes for unnecessary delays that are caused by too many cooks in the kitchen.

"I fully support my friend and colleague, Representative Bill Flores' bill that will promote more timely and efficient reviews.

"We need to strengthen the FERC's lead agency role that was designed to create accountability and transparency.

"Overall, this bill will encourage more timely and efficient reviews and keep energy prices affordable for Americans.

"Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support this rule and the underlying bill. I yield back the remainder of my time."