The House Natural Resources Committee, Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, held a hearing this morning on The National Petroleum Reserve Alaska Access Act (H.R. 2150), which expands energy production by requiring that annual lease sales be held in the NPR-A and expedites permitting in infrastructure development. This legislation was introduced last week as Alaskan Congressman Don Young, Chairman Doc Hastings, and Governor Sean Parnell were touring the NPR-A.
To view video of Rep. Young this morning, click here.
“Today, the Trans Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS) is running at one-third capacity, even though it is surrounded by oil-rich fields” said Rep. Young. “Soon, without the addition of increased oil supplies, that pipeline will no longer be economical to operate. Carrying 11% of our nation’s supply, TAPS is critical infrastructure for this nation that must be protected. However, there have been a series of bureaucratic delays that have obstructed production in this vast area. This bill seeks to remedy that situation and give the American people the energy resources they need.”
Testimony for today’s hearing was provided by:
Panel I
The Honorable Lisa Murkowski
U.S. Senator, State of Alaska
Panel II
The Honorable Joe Balash
Deputy Commissioner
Alaska Department of Natural Resources
Charles T. Drevna
President
National Petrochemical and Refiners Association
Tim Sharp
Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer
Laborers Local 942
Eric Myers
Policy Director
Audubon Alaska
Panel III
The Honorable Mike Pool
Deputy Director, Bureau of Land Management
U.S. Department of the Interior
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