Austin News

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz from Texas has introduced a bill aimed at repealing the Natural Gas Tax, part of the Biden administration's Inflation Reduction Act. This move is intended to bolster American energy security and independence.

Senator Cruz stated, "Democratic policies have forced Americans to endure historic inflation and economic pain, and have jeopardized American energy independence and national security. It’s time to unleash American energy." He urged his colleagues in Congress to support the legislation promptly.

Senator Roger Marshall criticized Democratic policies, claiming they have negatively impacted American jobs and energy costs. "The Democrats' relentless attacks on American energy have killed good paying jobs, ceded power to foreign nations, and caused energy bills to skyrocket," he said.

Senator Tommy Tuberville expressed concerns over the current administration's priorities. "The Biden administration has once again prioritized woke climate activists over the American people," he remarked. He supports the new legislation as a means to reduce taxes and regulatory burdens.

Senator Katie Britt emphasized the public's desire for a change in energy policy following recent elections. "The American people voted resoundingly in November for an America-first approach to energy policy," she noted.

Jason Isaac, CEO of the American Energy Institute, supported the repeal act, describing it as crucial for reducing consumer costs and eliminating unnecessary taxation on natural gas production. "By removing this burden, we empower American energy producers—the most responsible on the planet—to deliver affordable, reliable energy that fuels economic growth," he stated.

The legislation was introduced with co-sponsors including Senators Roger Marshall of Kansas, Tim Sheehy of Montana, Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, Eric Schmitt of Missouri, and Katie Britt of Alabama. The proposal has received endorsements from several industry associations such as US Oil & Gas Association (USOGA) and American Petroleum Institute (API).

This legislative effort follows a similar bill introduced by Senator Cruz in May 2024 aiming to repeal components of the Inflation Reduction Act related to natural gas taxation.