WASHINGTON — In January, President Joe Biden, who calls the climate crisis an “existential threat,” announced a pause on pending decisions of liquefied natural gas exports to some countries.

At the time, he said, “During this period, we will take a hard look at the impacts of LNG exports on energy costs, America’s energy security, and our environment.”

That pause has not yet been lifted.

Rep. Brett Guthrie, R-Bowing Green, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, wants to reverse Biden’s decision.

He recently wrote an op-ed in The Hill saying it will have global implications for national security and could force European partners to use exports from adversaries.

“It creates profits for Putin and that’s what he’s using to fund his army, and we have allies across the world that are suffering because of the situation that’s going on in Europe,” he told Spectrum News. 

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., also condemned Biden’s move, saying it could increase reliance on Russian and Iranian energy.

In February, the House passed the Unlocking our Domestic LNG Potential Act, which repeals certain restrictions on the import and export of natural gas.

“I hope that there’s going to be a change coming in November, and we’re going to stand with our allies, not just with rhetoric, we’re going to really stand with our allies by giving them the relief that they want and that is access to cheaper energy," Guthrie said. 

Although the measure passed the Republican-controlled House, Guthrie acknowledged it will not likely get floor time in the Senate, where Democrats have the majority.

The White House says the U.S. is already the top exporter of LNG and remains committed to supporting its allies and partners.