House of Representatives Passes Sweeping Energy Package Aimed at Rolling Back Biden’s Climate Change Agenda

The House of Representatives has approved a sweeping energy package that seeks to roll back President Joe Biden’s climate change agenda. The bill, labeled H.R. 1 by Republicans, is the top legislative priority of the new GOP majority and was passed with four Democrats joining Republicans in voting for it.

The bill would sharply increase domestic production of oil, natural gas and coal, and ease permitting restrictions that delay pipelines, refineries and other projects. It would also boost production of critical minerals such as lithium, nickel and cobalt that are used in products such as electric vehicles, computers and cellphones.

Republicans have labeled the bill the “Lower Energy Costs Act” and have given it the symbolic label H.R. 1. It is the top legislative priority of the new GOP majority, which took control of the House in January.

The bill has been met with criticism from Democrats and environmental activists, who argue that it will increase air and water pollution and accelerate climate change. They also argue that it will benefit large corporations at the expense of the environment and public health.

The bill now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to face stiff opposition from Democrats. It remains to be seen whether the bill will pass in its current form or if it will be amended to address the concerns of Democrats and environmental activists.