Southwest Allegheny News

Rep. Jason Ortitay from Washington and Allegheny counties has expressed his disagreement with President Joe Biden's recent decision to pause the approval of pending applications for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. The decision was made due to environmental concerns, but Ortitay criticized it as being politically motivated and a poor policy choice.

"Biden’s announcement is being driven by politics and bad policy," Ortitay stated. He emphasized that Russia remains a major exporter of LNG, especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has led other countries to reduce their reliance on Russian energy sources. "By pausing pending applications, Biden is reducing choices for our allies," he added.

Ortitay also warned that this decision could lead to increased energy costs globally, impacting consumers both domestically and internationally. He argued for stability in the energy marketplace rather than restricting supply. "Natural gas is a cleaner fuel, so the Biden administration’s environmental concerns hold no merit," he said.

He urged U.S. congressmen and senators to oppose the announcement, stating it would lead to higher costs and affect jobs within his legislative district in western Pennsylvania.

The 46th Legislative District represented by Ortitay includes areas such as South Fayette Township and McDonald and Oakdale boroughs in Allegheny County, along with several townships and boroughs in Washington County.