Luke Messer: “Again, I want to thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Barton) for his leadership on this important bill and reiterate my…”

“Again, I want to thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Barton) for his leadership on this important bill and reiterate my support for H.R. 702. This is commonsense legislation that repeals the outdated ban on crude oil exports. The U.S. is producing more oil today than ever before, and we could literally become a net exporter of energy, something that would have been unimaginable a generation ago and would have incredible results for our economy. The fact that we are the only advanced nation that prohibits the export of domestically produced oil holds us back. I believe very strongly that we should not empower our enemies unintentionally through this legislation, and this includes the Islamic Republic of Iran. My amendment today prohibits the export of crude oil, refined petroleum products, and petrochemical products to Iran. Obviously, Iran has oil. It has no need to import it from the United States. But my amendment goes beyond just crude oil. It ensures Iran will not inadvertently have access to other petroleum-based products produced in the U.S. Refined petroleum and petrochemical products are used to manufacture thousands of goods that we use every day. Things like plastics, asphalt, paints, and cell phones are manufactured in this way. It was only a few weeks ago in this very Chamber that we discussed the dangers of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, also known as the Iran nuclear deal.…”