Washington, D.C. — Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) has helped introduce the Safe and Secure Transportation of American Energy Act, a bill led by Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Ted Cruz (R-TX).
The legislation would deter domestic eco-terrorists from targeting pipelines for transporting oil and gas in the U.S. by expanding the current criminal penalties to cover vandalism, tampering with, or disrupting the operations or construction of a pipeline.
Current federal law does allow for criminal charges against individuals who damage or destroy operating pipelines. However, it does not clearly apply these penalties to those who vandalize, tamper with, or disrupt the operation or construction of a pipeline.
The bill is also co-sponsored by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Todd Young (R-IN), and Roger Wicker (R-MS).
Senator Budd said in a statement:
“We need more energy infrastructure in our state and our country. Individuals who destroy, vandalize, or damage pipelines or try to violently disrupt the construction of new ones must be prosecuted. I am proud to partner with Senator Cruz to introduce the Safe and Secure Transportation of American Energy Act, which will make sure these criminals are held accountable.”
Senator Cruz said:
“The number of targeted, disruptive activities against vital oil and gas pipelines is growing. These disruptions, whether during construction or operation, are not just inconveniences—they put people’s lives at risk and are direct assaults on our economy and American energy independence. I am proud to spearhead legislation to jail eco-terrorists who try to shut down pipelines and prevent the movement of American energy. It is particularly needed given Hollywood radicals celebrate and encourage eco-terrorism through films like ‘How to Blow Up a Pipeline.’ Ironically, when eco-terrorists take extreme measures like valve-turning, they actually risk damaging the environment, which is exactly what pipeline operators are working to avoid. This legislation would ensure these highly disruptive acts now meet the thresholds for criminal penalties.”
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