April 29, 2026
Mr. Calvert submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned
Condemning State-level energy policies that restrict domestic oil production, increase gasoline prices, and undermine American energy security and national defense.
Whereas affordable and reliable energy is essential to the economic well-being of American families, small businesses, and the broader United States economy;
Whereas residents of certain States, including California, consistently face gasoline prices significantly higher than the national average due in part to State-specific regulatory policies that restrict supply and increase costs;
Whereas such elevated fuel prices disproportionately burden working-class Americans, increase the cost of goods and services, and contribute to inflationary pressures across the economy;
Whereas policies that limit domestic oil production, refining capacity, and energy infrastructure development have constrained supply and increased reliance on imported energy sources;
Whereas over-reliance on foreign oil undermines United States energy independence and exposes the Nation to geopolitical risks and supply disruptions;
Whereas the greenhouse gas intensity of United States oil production, particularly in the Gulf of America, is significantly lower compared to most other regions around the world;
Whereas the United States Department of Defense is the largest institutional consumer of fuel in the world and depends on stable, affordable energy supplies to maintain global operations and force readiness;
Whereas elevated fuel costs increase operational expenses for military installations, diverting resources away from training, modernization, and readiness priorities;
Whereas high fuel prices also increase the cost of living for servicemembers, civilian defense personnel, and contractors, negatively affecting recruitment, retention, and morale;
Whereas supply constraints and price volatility in fuel markets may hinder force mobilization, logistics, and sustained military operations during times of crisis; and
Whereas the adoption of similar restrictive energy policies nationwide would likely increase gasoline prices across the United States, reduce domestic energy production, and weaken national security: Now, therefore, be it
That the House of Representatives—
(1)
condemns State-level energy policies that intentionally or effectively restrict domestic oil production and refining capacity, resulting in higher gasoline prices for American consumers;
(2)
finds that policies implemented in States such as California have contributed to significantly higher fuel costs, placing undue financial strain on families and businesses;
(3)
recognizes that affordable, reliable, and domestically produced energy is critical to United States economic stability, energy independence, and global competitiveness;
(4)
affirms that access to abundant and affordable fuel supplies is essential to maintaining the operational readiness and strategic capabilities of the United States Armed Forces;
(5)
expresses concern that high fuel costs and over-reliance on foreign energy sources pose risks to United States national security and military preparedness;
(6)
warns against the adoption of similar restrictive energy policies at the Federal level that would exacerbate fuel price increases and undermine domestic energy production; and
(7)
encourages policies that support responsible domestic energy development, strengthen supply chains, and ensure long-term energy affordability for American consumers and national defense.