"Natural Resources Panel Passes Major Energy Development Bill"

"A House panel today approved legislation to increase energy development on public lands and waters by reducing federal regulations, streamlining the permitting process and creating a revenue-sharing partnership with coastal states.

The Natural Resources Committee reported out the 'Strengthening the Economy With Critical Untapped Resources to Expand (SECURE) American Energy Act' in a 19-14 vote, mostly along party lines, despite the bill being sponsored by two Republicans and two Democrats.

Louisiana Republican Rep. Garret Graves broke ranks with his party and voted against the bill, because of what he deemed its unfair revenue-sharing advantage for East Coast states compared to his state.

H.R. 4239 is sponsored by panel Chairman Rob Bishop (R-Utah), House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.), and Texas Democratic Reps. Henry Cuellar and Vicente Gonzalez. House leaders could decide to fast-track the bill, which was introduced Friday, to the floor before Thanksgiving."

Kellie Lunney reports for Greenwire November 8, 2017.