Permits to run natural gas pipelines through federal lands would be easier and quicker to obtain, under terms of a measure introduced on Capitol Hill today by shore Representative Tom MacArthur (R-3).

Tom MacArthur/Photo by Tom Mongelli, Townsquare Media
Tom MacArthur/Photo by Tom Mongelli, Townsquare Media
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The goal of the bipartisan National Energy Security Corridors Act, the Republican said, is to update energy infrastructure with an eye for stabilizing consumer costs.

He introduces the legislation as a battle continues over a project that would convert a coal-burning generating station in Cape May County to natural gas via a proposed pipeline that would be placed under a developed segment of the Pinelands.

His prepared comments do not address the issue, focusing instead on findings of lopsided end-user energy prices tied to available infrastructure.

Energy Cost Chart, courtesy Rep. Tom MacArthur
Energy Cost Chart, courtesy Rep. Tom MacArthur
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"My neighbors and friends in South Jersey are struggling under the burden of high electricity bills, and all along the East Coast, families are paying higher than average to heat their homes with natural gas," MacArthur said.

"We need an all-of-the-above energy policy that utilizes our existing resources through a modern energy infrastructure, but bureaucratic red tape and outdated requirements have stalled any progress toward that goal."

If enacted, decision responsibilities on natural gas line projects would be taken out of Congress and placed with the Secretary of the Interior.

"By streamlining that permitting process, we'll create jobs, give a much needed update to our energy infrastructure, and reduce power costs for families on the East Coast," MacArthur said, adding that it would support job creation at the same time.

The National Energy Security Corridors Act has support of America's Natural Gas Association, International Union of Operating Engineers, Interstate Natural Gas Association of America, and North America's Building Trades Union.

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