Weber, Randy RSS Articles

Rep. Weber Applauds Advancement of FY27 Energy and Water Funding Bill Containing More Than $120 Million for the Texas Gulf Coast

Thu, 21 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14) announced that the Fiscal Year 2027 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act has cleared another major legislative hurdle following passage out of the full House Appropriations Committee.

The bill contains more than $120 million in funding victories for Texas’ 14th Congressional District, which includes:

$100 million for the Sabine-Neches Waterway construction project to continue the deepening and expansion of one of the nation’s most critical energy export corridors.
$12.7 million for Galveston Harbor and Channel operations and maintenance to support dredging and navigation improvements along one of the busiest entrance channels in the United States.
$9.2 million for the Coastal Texas Protection and Restoration Study, also known as the Ike Dike Project, to advance long-term coastal storm protection efforts along the Texas Gulf Coast.

The broader legislation also strengthens America’s national and energy security by:

Modernizing America’s nuclear weapons stockpile and strengthening deterrence against foreign adversaries.
Supporting President Trump’s goal of quadrupling U.S. nuclear energy capacity by 2050.
Expanding investments in critical minerals extraction and domestic supply chains to reduce dependence on foreign nations.
Maintaining cybersecurity protections that help secure and strengthen America’s electric grid.
Prohibiting the sale of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to the Chinese Communist Party.

“Year after year, the appropriations process is where priorities are tested, refined, and fought for, which makes this milestone an important one for the Texas Gulf Coast,” said Rep. Weber. “Seeing this legislation continue to advance with more than $120 million in funding for Texas' 14th Congressional District speaks to the hard work being done to keep America’s energy corridor strong, competitive, and prepared for the future. Whether it’s deepening the channels that move American energy, maintaining the ports that keep commerce flowing, or continuing long-term coastal protection efforts, these are the kinds of investments that carry consequences far beyond Southeast Texas. I’m proud to help carry these priorities through each stage of the process as the bill moves closer to the House Floor.”

The Fiscal Year 2027 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act is now eligible for consideration on the House Floor before heading to the United States Senate for further consideration.

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Rep. Weber Announces Major Texas Gulf Coast Funding Wins as FY27 Energy and Water Appropriations Bill Advances

Mon, 18 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14) announced more than $120 million in funding victories for Texas’ 14th Congressional District in the Fiscal Year 2027 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act following passage out of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water. The legislation will now advance to the full House Appropriations Committee before it heads to the U.S. House Floor.

The bill includes critical funding for Texas Gulf Coast priorities championed by Rep. Weber, including the Sabine-Neches Waterway, the Coastal Texas Protection and Restoration Study, and the Galveston Harbor and Channel.

“Texas’ 14th District is the district that powers America, and these investments are proof that the work happening on the Texas Gulf Coast matters to every single American,” said Rep. Weber. “Our ports, waterways, and energy infrastructure keep this country moving. From producing the fuel that powers our military to moving commerce through some of the nation's busiest waterways, Southeast Texas and the Gulf Coast are essential to America’s economic strength and national security. I’ll continue fighting every single day to make sure our communities remain at the forefront of these conversations in Washington.”

Included in the FY27 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Act:

$100 million for the Sabine-Neches Waterway construction project, continuing progress on the deepening and expansion of one of the nation’s most important waterways for energy production and exports.
$12.7 million for Galveston Harbor and Channel operations and maintenance, supporting dredging and navigation improvements for one of the busiest entrance channels in the United States.
$9.2 million for the Coastal Texas Protection and Restoration Study (locally known as the Ike Dike Project), helping advance long-term coastal storm protection efforts along the Texas Gulf Coast.

"Deepening the Sabine-Neches Waterway is one of the most vital missions of our time, and we are honored to serve Jefferson County, Texas, and this great nation," said Randy Reese, Executive Director and CEO of the Sabine-Neches Navigation District. "We are committed to delivering economic prosperity and energy security for generations."

“The Port of Galveston greatly appreciates the leadership and support of Congressman Randy Weber and Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, Chairman of the House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, for recognizing the national and regional importance of the Galveston Harbor and Channel project," said Rodger Rees, Port Director & CEO, Galveston Wharves at the Port of Galveston. "Under Chairman Fleischmann’s leadership, the Fiscal Year 2027 House appropriations legislation proposes increasing the President’s budget request for the Galveston Harbor and Channel project from $44.8 million to $60.5 million to help ensure that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has sufficient funding to adequately maintain this critical federal navigation project. While the legislation still requires approval by the full House and subsequent congressional action, this represents a significant step forward for the Port of Galveston and the many industries that rely upon this federal navigation channel."

“This funding sends an unmistakable message: Congress is committed to advancing the Coastal Texas Project,” said Coalter Baker, Executive Director, Gulf Coast Protection District. “This bill is another example of consistent, dedicated investments in coastal storm risk mitigation, reinforcing the fact that protecting the Texas coast is a national priority. We appreciate Congressman Weber’s leadership in keeping these projects moving forward and ensuring they remain front and center in Washington."

Rep. Weber Leads Mother’s Day Resolution Celebrating America’s Mothers

Fri, 08 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - Ahead of Mother’s Day, Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14) introduced a resolution recognizing the importance of motherhood and honoring the women who raise and shape the next generation of Americans. The resolution reaffirms the significance of mothers, the sacrifices they make for their families, and the lasting impact they have on communities across the country.

“Motherhood is one of God’s greatest blessings and one of the strongest foundations of our country,” said Rep. Weber. “For generations, mothers have raised families, strengthened communities, and shaped the character of our nation. As some continue trying to redefine or diminish what motherhood means, we are standing firm in recognizing and celebrating the women who give life, love, and sacrifice so much for the next generation. On Mother’s Day, and every day, we honor the mothers who keep America strong!”

This resolution:

Supports policies that recognize mothers as mothers;
Acknowledges that Mother's Day is intended specifically to commemorate motherhood and to honor the mothers of the United States;
Recognizes the importance of motherhood, the sacrifices women make when choosing to raise a family, and the invaluable contributions of motherhood to the family, community, states, and the country as a whole;
And encourages the people of the United States to observe Mother's Day in celebration of the women who have chosen to bring life into the world and nurture the next generation.

Cosponsors include: Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02), Brian Babin (TX-36), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Craig Goldman (TX-12), Harriet Hageman (WY-At Large), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Mary Miller (IL-15), Blake Moore (UT-01), Barry Moore (AL-01), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Rich McCormick (GA-07), Addison McDowell (NC-06), John Moolenaar (MI-02), Michael Rulli (OH-06), Maria Salazar (FL-27), Pete Sessions (TX-17), Chris Smith (NJ-04), Brian Mast (FL-21), and Claudia Tenney (NY-24).

Read the full bill text here.

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Rep. Weber’s National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act Advances Out of the Full House Science, Space, and Technology Committee

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Randy Weber’s (TX-14) H.R. 8462, the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act, advanced out of the full House Science, Space, and Technology Committee unanimously and is now eligible for consideration on the U.S. House Floor.

Watch Representative Weber's Opening Statement here.

Read Representative Weber's Opening Statement below:

"Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I’m pleased to sponsor and support H.R. 8462, the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act.

"The Trump Administration has identified quantum information science, technology, and engineering as one of the Nation’s highest research and development priority areas. First passed in 2018 during President Trump’s first term, the National Quantum Initiative aimed to accelerate the Nation’s advancement in quantum sciences and technologies. These efforts demonstrate a long-term commitment to American innovation, as well as maintaining U.S. leadership in science and technology.

"As the global push toward quantum supremacy intensifies, the United States faces growing pressure to maintain its leadership. Our adversaries, including the Chinese Communist Party, are committing significant resources to quantum information science. The U.S. cannot and must not afford to fall behind in the race for quantum supremacy.

"This legislation builds on the hard work and progress we’ve made over the past eight years to strengthen quantum information science. It sustains the basic research that underpins our success while including translational research to move quantum technologies toward real-world applications. It also prioritizes workforce development, recognizing that a strong talent pipeline is absolutely critical to advancing and deploying these technologies

"Lastly, it reinforces the importance of leveraging international partnerships to address the challenges and threats posed by our adversaries. This legislation also formally adds the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA, to the National Quantum Initiative. NASA has made meaningful contributions to the goals of the National Quantum Initiative through targeted investments, including quantum-enabled technologies for space science and precision measurement. Quantum science, engineering, and technology have the potential to redefine what’s possible in this field. The National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act helps unlock that potential, and that is exactly what it is going to do.

"I want to thank everyone who took the time and effort to submit thoughtful feedback and suggestions on how Congress can strengthen the National Quantum Initiative. I look forward to continuing to work with my fellow members of this committee and stakeholders as we move this process forward.

"Mr. Chairman, I yield back."

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Rep. Weber Introduces the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14) introduced H.R. 8462, National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act (NQIA), legislation to strengthen America’s leadership in quantum science and technology, bolster national security, expand workforce development, and counter growing competition from the Chinese Communist Party and other adversaries.

The legislation reauthorizes and modernizes the landmark National Quantum Initiative, first signed into law in 2018, to advance a coordinated federal strategy to move quantum research beyond basic science and into applied research, commercialization, and deployment. The bill expands programs across the federal government, supports domestic quantum supply chains, strengthens partnerships with U.S. allies, and formally incorporates NASA into the initiative.

The legislation is scheduled for markup before the full House Science, Space, and Technology Committee on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

“Quantum technology will help define the future of economic strength, scientific discovery, and national security,” said Rep. Weber. “The United States must lead in this mission-critical field and not cede ground to the Chinese Communist Party. This legislation builds on the success of the original National Quantum Initiative by strengthening research, growing the workforce of tomorrow, and helping move breakthrough technologies from the lab into the real world.”

“I want to thank Congressman Randy Weber for his leadership in advancing the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act," said Chairman Brian Babin, House Science, Space, and Technology Committee. "As we consider this legislation at Wednesday’s full committee markup, it’s clear this bill strengthens America’s position in a rapidly evolving global race by modernizing our quantum research enterprise, supporting a skilled workforce, and deepening partnerships with our allies. Ensuring U.S. leadership in quantum technology is critical to our economic competitiveness and national security, and this legislation takes an important step forward.”

The bill also includes provisions to:

Require a strategy to expand cooperative quantum research efforts with U.S. allies;
Authorize up to three National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) centers focused on quantum sensing, measurement, and engineering;
Strengthen National Science Foundation (NSF) traineeships, fellowships, and workforce development programs;
Authorize new quantum testbeds and a multidisciplinary coordination hub through NSF;
Support the development of quantum foundries and domestic supply chains; and
Formally authorize quantum research and development activities at NASA.

Quantum technologies have the potential to transform computing, secure communications, sensing, and defense capabilities. As global competition intensifies, the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act will help ensure America remains at the forefront of one of the most consequential technological frontiers of the 21st century.

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Rep. Weber Announces Membership in Newly Launched Bipartisan Gulf South Business Caucus

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14) announced he is joining the Gulf South Business Caucus, a new bipartisan caucus focused on strengthening economic competitiveness, energy leadership, and industrial growth across the Gulf Coast region.

The caucus, launched April 23, 2026, brings Members from Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas together to advance policies that support workforce development, infrastructure investment, and long-term economic expansion across one of the most productive regions in the country.

“I’m proud to be an inaugural member of the Gulf South Business Caucus,” said Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14). “In Texas’ 14th District alone, our seven ports support over 200,000 jobs, move tens of billions of dollars in economic activity, and anchor a region that drives more than $1 trillion in trade each year while producing a massive share of America’s fuel supply. The Gulf Coast is the backbone that keeps America moving. This caucus is ready to set the bar high and keep this country charging toward its next era of greatness.”

The Gulf South region contributes more than $3.7 trillion to the U.S. economy and serves as a national hub for energy production, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and chemical production. As a member of the caucus, Rep. Weber will work alongside colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure the Gulf Coast continues to lead in powering America’s economy and supporting its workforce.

Read more here.

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ICYMI: Rep. Weber Pens Op-Ed Highlighting the Importance of Protecting America's Energy Infrastructure

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - In a new op-ed in the Washington Times, Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14) outlined why pipeline cybersecurity must be treated as a national priority in the face of growing cyber threats. Rep. Weber detailed how vulnerabilities in America’s energy infrastructure pose serious risks to economic stability and national security, emphasizing the need for stronger coordination and preparedness to protect the systems that power our country.

In case you missed it…

In the Face of Growing Cyber Threats, Pipeline Security Must be a Priority
Washington Times
Congressman Randy Weber
April 22, 2026

In Ma 2021, Americans received a stark reminder that the infrastructure powering our country is not immune to attack.

A ransomware group known as DarkSide infiltrated the computer systems of the Colonial Pipeline, the largest refined fuel pipeline in the United States. Out of caution, the company shut down operations across its entire system while it worked to contain the breach.

The consequences were felt almost immediately.

Colonial Pipeline operates a 5,500-mile network stretching from Texas to New Jersey, carrying gasoline, diesel and jet fuel to markets across the eastern United States. Every day, the system moves roughly 2.5 million barrels of fuel, supplying nearly 45% of the gasoline and diesel consumed along the East Coas.

When that system stopped moving fuel, even temporarily, the effects rippled across more than 12,000 gas stations and impacted tens of millions of Americans.

Within days of the shutdown, drivers lined up for miles to fill their tanks, and panic-buying spread across several states. The national average gasoline price climbed to levels not seen since 2014, while some states saw increases of more than 20 cents in a single week.

For many Americans, it was the first time they realized just how much their daily lives depend on energy infrastructure that operates quietly in the background.

But what made the Colonial Pipeline attack particularly alarming was not just the disruption itself; it was how it happened.

The attackers never physically touched the pipeline.

Cybercriminals believed to be operating out of Russia gained access to Colonial’s computer network using a compromised password and deployed ransomware designed to lock the company out of its own systems until a ransom payment was made.

In other words, criminals thousands of miles away disrupted one of the most critical energy systems in the United States using nothing more than a laptop and malicious code.

That reality should concern every American. The Colonial Pipeline attack revealed that the systems we depend on every day are no longer threatened solely by physical sabotage or traditional acts of war; They are also vulnerable in cyberspace.

Energy infrastructure has always been vital to the strength of our economy, but the 2021 Colonial Pipeline attack showed just how equally important it is to our national security. Pipelines move the fuel that powers our cars, trucks, airplanes, farms and factories. Refineries turn crude oil into the gasoline and diesel that keep commerce moving. Ports and terminals carry that energy to communities across the country and markets around the world.

The Colonial Pipeline attack revealed what happens when one link in that chain is disrupted. Brief interruptions to a single system can spread quickly across the country. When fuel deliveries slow, transportation costs rise. When prices increase, families feel it at the pump. And when uncertainty spreads across energy markets, the effects are felt throughout the broader economy.

Nearly five years later, the lesson learned from the Colonial Pipeline attack is undeniable: cybersecurity is inseparable from energy and national security.

President Donald Trump’s Cyber Strategy for America recognizes this reality and places securing critical infrastructure at the center of our national cyber posture. One of the strategy’s key priorities is Pillar Four: Secure Critical Infrastructure. This pillar focuses on identifying, prioritizing, and hardening the systems that power our country, including pipelines, energy grids and the digital networks that support them.

That same mission is driving action in Congress.

My Pipeline Cybersecurity Preparedness Act, a bipartisan effort with Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Mich., designates the Department of Energy to lead pipeline cybersecurity preparedness and response, strengthen coordination and improve information-sharing, all without adding new regulatory burdens.

Because what we saw in 2021 cannot happen again.

The United States possesses one of the most advanced and productive energy systems in the world. From the energy fields of Texas and the refining complexes along the Gulf Coast to the pipelines that move fuel to communities across the country, this network remains a pillar of American strength.

But if we are going to retain that strength, we must remain vigilant in cyberspace.

The infrastructure that powers America must be protected with the same seriousness we devote to protecting the nation itself.

That means strengthening cybersecurity across our energy infrastructure now. Not tomorrow. Today.

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Chairman Weber Delivers Opening Statement at Energy Subcommittee Hearing on American Energy and Mineral Dominance

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14), Chairman of the Energy Subcommittee on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, delivered the following opening statement at today’s hearing, “Subsurface Science and Technology: American Energy and Mineral Dominance.”

Watch Subcommittee Chairman Weber's opening statement here.

Read Subcommittee Chairman Weber’s opening statement below:

"Welcome to today’s hearing titled Subsurface Science and Technology: American Energy and Mineral Dominance. I recognize myself for five minutes for an opening statement.

"Well, good morning, you all. You can tell I’m from Texas. Good morning, and welcome to today’s Energy Subcommittee hearing titled Subsurface Science and Technology: American Energy and Mineral Dominance.

"The United States is blessed with an abundance of natural resources across our magnificent country. For over a century, our nation has generated a significant portion of its power directly from subsurface resources such as coal and natural gas. Technological breakthroughs in subsurface sciences have enabled us to access these resources in new and innovative ways, unlocking potential that was once thought, quite frankly, impossible.

"A great example of this is the geothermal energy sector. Previously, geothermal energy was limited to certain regions due to extremely specific conditions required for it to be a viable energy source. For a geothermal well to be successful, the required combination of shallow heat, permeable rock, and available water had to be present to extract heat from the Earth and generate electricity. If any of these requirements were not met, a geothermal well would not generate power. As a result, the few areas capable of supporting geothermal electricity generation were tapped decades ago, which left the industry in a position where some believed that its full potential had already been reached.

"Thanks to innovation in the oil and gas sector, geothermal is getting a new lease on life. Over the last few decades, oil and gas have been at the forefront of new drilling and extraction technologies and methods. These breakthroughs have helped address issues that traditional geothermal energy has faced in the past. Next-generation geothermal systems are also well suited to play a role in leveraging established technologies like hydraulic fracturing and drilling deeper to access hotter rock, bringing baseload geothermal to new regions across the entire country.

"The timing for these enhanced geothermal systems to be commercialized could not be better. Energy demand is skyrocketing as we are not only onshoring manufacturing, but also electrifying our lives and working to stay ahead of the Chinese Communist Party in the artificial intelligence race. It is very important to ensure that the U.S. is positioned for a prosperous future.

"The Department of Energy underwent a reorganization in November 2025. This reorganization resulted in the establishment of two key offices for today’s hearing: the Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy Office and the Office of Critical Minerals, Minerals, and Energy Innovation. With their creation, DOE made the subsurface—and, by extension, geothermal energy and critical minerals—a priority moving forward.

"These offices have already announced funding opportunities to accelerate the deployment of next-generation geothermal energy, while helping ensure a safe and secure supply chain for the good old U.S. of A.

"We have seen recently how geopolitical events can impact not only our economy, but the global economy. This underscores the importance of strengthening domestic supply chains to meet both our energy and critical mineral needs. It also highlights the need to continue advancing cutting-edge innovation.

"The discoveries made by oil and natural gas companies that led to hydraulic fracturing, much of it from the Galveston, Texas area, and the hydraulic fracturing boom have helped insulate the U.S. from electricity price shocks, thanks to our enormous natural gas production capacity. This has enabled us to support our allies with LNG shipments to Europe and Asia, not only during the current supply disruption, but in previous ones as well.

"The ability to bring a new baseload power source to market during an energy supply crunch is an enormous win for the American people. Paired with DOE’s ongoing efforts to reduce reliance on critical minerals from foreign countries that may not have always had our best interests in mind, this creates a powerful one-two punch for the subsurface community.

"I want to thank all the witnesses for being here today and for their testimony, and I look forward to a very productive discussion.

"With that, I yield back my time."

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Reps. Weber and Dingell’s Pipeline Cybersecurity Preparedness Act Advances Out of Energy and Commerce Committee

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Randy Weber’s (TX-14) H.R. 7272 Pipeline Cybersecurity Preparedness Act advanced out of the full House Energy and Commerce Committee unanimously and is now eligible for consideration on the U.S. House Floor.

Rep. Weber introduced the legislation in February 2026 alongside Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) to strengthen cybersecurity coordination across the nation’s pipeline and liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure.

“Cyberattacks targeting our nation’s critical infrastructure are not hypothetical threats, and the consequences would not be limited to one region,” said Rep. Weber. “A disruption to a pipeline in Texas can be felt by families at the gas pump in Virginia. Americans saw that reality during the Colonial Pipeline cyberattack, when fuel shortages spread across the eastern seaboard. In the event of an attack on our energy infrastructure, we need a coordinated, whole-of-government response to restore operations quickly and protect our energy supply. The Department of Energy is best positioned to lead that effort.”

Background

The need for stronger coordination and preparedness across America’s energy infrastructure became clear during the Colonial Pipeline cyberattack in May 2021, one of the most significant cyber incidents targeting U.S. energy infrastructure.

Colonial Pipeline operates a 5,500-mile pipeline system that transports gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel from the Texas Gulf Coast to the East Coast.
Following the cyberattack, the company shut down operations across the entire pipeline system, disrupting fuel deliveries across multiple states.
The disruption triggered widespread fuel shortages, panic buying, and price spikes, leaving many gas stations across the United States without fuel.
The incident demonstrated how a single cyberattack on critical energy infrastructure can have cascading effects across multiple regions of the country.

The Pipeline Cybersecurity Preparedness Act seeks to strengthen coordination and preparedness across the energy sector to ensure the federal government and industry partners can respond quickly and effectively to cyber threats targeting critical energy infrastructure.

Rep. Weber’s opening remarks:

“I want to thank my friend from Michigan, Representative Dingell, for co-leading H.R. 7272, the Pipeline Cybersecurity Preparedness Act, which unanimously passed through the Energy Subcommittee in February.

“The Department of Energy (DOE) currently serves as the government’s energy sector lead, coordinating efforts across energy infrastructure owners and operators, states, and federal agencies.

“In this role, DOE maintains visibility across the entire energy value chain, an essential part of its mission, while providing the technical expertise necessary to coordinate security and hazards response across the sector.

“As the threat landscape evolves, cyber-attacks on U.S. systems from adversarial nations and rogue actors alike are on the rise. Given the unique risks that cyber threats pose to our energy infrastructure, we must strengthen information sharing and coordination practices in law.

“And we must do so quickly.

“That is why it is critical to advance H.R. 7272. This bill would improve how the DOE works with others in the energy sector to ensure the security and resilience of pipelines and LNG facilities that our nation depends upon for the reliable supply of fuels and electricity.

“This bill leverages the Department’s vast technical capabilities to develop a program that improves the coordination and the technical support needed to ensure timely, efficient, and effective efforts to secure our energy systems and response to disruptions.

“As I said in the Subcommittee markup, let me be crystal clear—H.R. 7272 does not create or authorize a regulatory program.

“Collaboration with agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration, and utilizing their expertise will remain key, however it is important to remember that the Department of Energy retains responsibility over the whole energy and power sector. It also already leads federal coordination on this front.

“For any American watching this today, an attack on our infrastructure is not merely a hypothetical scenario. And the impacts would not be isolated.

“An attack on a pipeline in Texas can be felt in Virginia at the gas pump. We experienced this firsthand when many gas stations along the eastern seaboard quite literally ran out of fuel in the aftermath of the Colonial Pipeline cyber-attack.

“In the wake of a cyberattack, we need a direct, cohesive, whole-of-government response to cut through the chaos, and there is no better entity to lead that effort than DOE.

“With that, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 7272, and I yield back the balance of my time.”

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Rep. Weber Introduces Resolution Recognizing 10th Anniversary of First Lower 48 LNG Export

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14), Vice Chair of the Republican Study Committee’s House Energy Action Team (HEAT), introduced a House Resolution recognizing the 10th anniversary of the first export shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) produced in the lower 48 United States.

On February 24, 2016, the tanker Asia Vision departed Cheniere’s Sabine Pass facility on the Texas Gulf Coast bound for Brazil. That historic shipment marked the first time LNG produced by American workers, using American technology, was exported from the continental United States to global markets. It signaled the beginning of a new era of American energy leadership.

The resolution:

Recognizes and celebrates the 10th anniversary of the first LNG export shipment from the lower 48 states;
Honors the workers, innovators, and communities who made this milestone possible;
Acknowledges the role LNG exports play in strengthening U.S. economic growth, energy security, and international partnerships;
And reaffirms the importance of continued innovation and responsible development of American energy resources.

Over the past decade, LNG exports from the lower 48 have supported an annual average of 273,000 American jobs and contributed more than $400 billion in economic growth. U.S. LNG terminals have shipped more than 8,500 cargoes to over 40 countries and regions around the world, strengthening alliances and reducing dependence on hostile energy suppliers.

“Ten years ago, the first LNG shipment from the Lower 48 left right here in Texas’ 14th Congressional District,” said Rep. Weber. “That moment proved what we’ve always known on the Texas Gulf Coast: when America produces, builds, and leads, we win. Today, the United States is the largest LNG exporter in the world because we didn’t sideline American energy, we unleashed it. Now it’s Congress’ job to protect that success and keep America energy dominant.”

“We applaud the work led by the House Energy Action Team (HEAT) to draw attention to the many economic, geopolitical, and environmental benefits of growing U.S. LNG exports,” said Charlie Riedl, Executive Director for the Center for LNG (CLNG). “As a coalition of companies representing the LNG supply chain, CLNG stands ready to support your efforts and continue to advocate for policies that will create American jobs and strengthen our national security. We look forward to working with you to advance this critical resolution and build awareness of the industry in Congress.”

Read CLNG’s full Letter of Support here.

“Over the past decade, U.S. LNG has strengthened our economy, supported hundreds of thousands of American jobs, and enhanced the energy security of our allies around the world,” said Dustin Meyer, Senior Vice President of Policy, Economics and Regulatory Affairs, American Petroleum Institute. “We applaud Congressman Weber’s leadership in recognizing the workers, innovators, and communities who made the United States the world’s leading LNG exporter, and who will continue to drive American energy innovation and leadership for decades to come.”

“America’s leading independent producers are proud to power a decade of U.S. LNG export leadership, and we applaud Representative Weber for recognizing this historic turning point that helped transform the United States into a global energy superpower," said Parker Kasmer, Vice President of Government Affairs, of the American Exploration & Production Council. "Thanks to the ingenuity and investment of American natural gas producers, U.S. LNG has become a cornerstone of global energy security, powering homes and economies across Europe, Asia, and beyond. As we mark this milestone, we look forward to working with Congress to advance policies that expand the role of American-made natural gas in meeting the world’s growing demand for ever cleaner, reliable energy,"

The resolution is cosponsored by Representatives Rick Allen (GA-12), Brian Babin (TX-36), Troy Balderson (OH-12), Aaron Bean (FL-04), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Mike Carey (OH-15), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Mike Collins (GA-10), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Julie Fedorchak (ND-AL), Randy Fine (FL-06), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Craig Goldman (TX-12), Vincent Gonzalez (TX-34), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Jeff Hurd (CO-03), Julia Letlow (LA-05), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Rich McCormick (GA-07), Addison McDowell (NC-06), Mark Messmer (IN-08), Carol Miller (WV-01), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Troy Nehls (TX-22), August Pfluger (TX-11), Michael Rulli (OH-6), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), and Roger Williams (TX-25).

Congressman Weber serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, where he is Vice Chairman of the Energy Subcommittee and serves on the Environment and Oversight & Investigations Subcommittees.

Rep. Weber’s district on the Texas Gulf Coast is home to critical LNG infrastructure that powers American energy production and strengthens national security.