In a 220-185 vote, the Republican energy package, which includes Representative Pete Stauber's mine permit reform bill, passed the House on Wednesday. The bill aims to streamline the permitting process for mining projects and promote domestic energy production.
However, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has already expressed his disapproval of the legislation. He called it "dead on arrival" in the Senate and criticized its lack of focus on renewable energy sources.
President Joe Biden also weighed in on the matter and stated that he would veto the bill if it were to reach his desk. In a statement released by his administration, Biden said that "the legislation undermines critical public health protections" and fails to address climate change.
Despite opposition from Democrats, Republicans have touted this as a major victory for American workers and energy independence. Representative Stauber praised passage of his bill and argued that it will create jobs while protecting environmental standards.
The Republican energy package also includes measures to expand offshore drilling and natural gas exports while rolling back Obama-era regulations on methane emissions from oil and gas operations.
As this controversial legislation moves forward through Congress, both sides will continue to debate its merits. The future of America's energy policy remains uncertain as lawmakers grapple with how best to balance economic growth with environmental concerns.