US Congress wants to cut LNG bunkering ‘red tape’

US Congress representatives Laurel Lee and August Pfluger have introduced a bill aimed at reducing "regulatory burdens" on LNG bunkering in the country.

IMAGE: Seaspan's vessel delivering LNG in Long Beach. Seaspan Energy

Both representatives criticised former US President Joe Biden's administration for increasing regulatory hurdles for domestic LNG ship-to-ship bunker operations by treating them as exports and subjecting them to extensive federal oversight.

The new bill, 'Cutting LNG Bunkering Red Tape Act', introduced on 25 July, has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

It states that ship-to-ship transfers of LNG used as marine fuel are not considered exports under the US Natural Gas Act, unless the transfers take place in international waters.

It aims to cut through regulatory hurdles for LNG bunkering, allowing major bunkering and marine transportation hubs like Florida, etc., to continue their expansion efforts, according to Congresswoman Lee’s office.

“LNG exports unequivocally benefit our economy, domestic prices, national security, and partners and allies around the world that want our product,” said Congressman Pflunger.

By Aparupa Mazumder

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