Energy Reform Efforts by New Senate Members

Newly inducted members of the Senate are bringing back a longstanding issue that could boost U.S. energy production if they succeed. Senator Alan Armstrong (R-Okla.), in his early months as the state’s junior senator, has made reform a key focus. He stepped into the role after Markwayne Mullin transitioned to Secretary of Homeland Security this year.

This topic might not grab headlines, but it has been a consistent point of conversation among lawmakers from both parties over the years. It’s not uncommon for these discussions to stall without resolution.

Mr. Armstrong, who previously served as CEO of the Oklahoma-based Williams Companies, is particularly focused on eliminating bureaucratic roadblocks for energy infrastructure projects. Many supporters argue this could enhance America’s economic competitiveness, especially in relation to China. He acknowledges that while there’s no quick fix to lower prices, meaningful permitting reform could position the U.S. as a leader in energy production.

“Building our own infrastructure reduces our allies’ dependency on adversarial energy sources,” he noted. “We can’t afford to lag while global competitors advance. Inaction will lead to higher energy expenses for American consumers.”

In response to this urgency, Armstrong has proposed the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure Act of 2026, a collection of legislative reforms informed by input from both the House and Senate. The aim is to streamline and reduce the costs associated with the permitting process for those involved with pipelines, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and other energy projects.

Supported by fellow Republicans, including Senators Cynthia Lummis, Rick Scott, and Katie Britt, Armstrong’s bill could put the Federal Energy Regulatory Agency (FERC) in charge of approving interstate pipelines and LNG terminals. This would change existing regulations to prevent a single state from blocking federally approved interstate projects.

He hopes to standardize the approval process for various projects and require evidence-based reviews for environmental decisions. This would also simplify mining operations, especially for critical minerals, on federal land.

Moreover, there’s a push to revise the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to focus on procedural aspects, which could streamline how environmental impacts are analyzed before project approvals.

“We must have the ability to rebuild, or our children might inherit a country worse than what we have today,” Armstrong expressed. “I’m excited that my time in the Senate has rekindled this important dialogue, and I’m determined to keep the momentum going.”