LNG Export Security Act

Key Points

• This bill adds a specific definition of "public interest" to the Natural Gas Act, which is the standard the government uses when deciding whether to approve liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. Right now, the term is undefined, giving regulators broad discretion. This bill would narrow that discretion.
• Under this definition, the government would have to consider how export approvals affect the development of natural gas facilities and domestic gas supply in the United States, steering decisions toward expanding infrastructure and production.
• The definition also requires officials to weigh domestic economic interests and national security interests when reviewing LNG export applications. This framing is designed to make it harder for regulators to deny or delay export permits based on environmental or climate concerns.
• The bill is co-sponsored by Sen. Cornyn (R-TX) and Sen. Fetterman (D-PA), giving it bipartisan backing. It has been referred to the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, where it would need to advance before reaching the full Senate.