American Energy Security Act

Full Title:
American Energy Security Act of 2025

Summary#

This bill would add a new grants program to title 49 of the U.S. Code. The Secretary of Transportation may give grants to publicly owned natural gas distribution utilities (those owned by a community or municipality). Grants can be used to repair, rehabilitate, or replace distribution pipelines, buy equipment, reduce unintentional leaks, reduce safety incidents and fatalities, and help pipelines accommodate safe transport of alternative energy sources. The Secretary must consider pipeline risk, job creation, benefits to disadvantaged rural or urban communities, and expected economic impact when awarding grants. The bill sets limits on awards (no more than 12.5% of funds to a single utility) and limits administrative spending to 2% of annual appropriations. Projects must follow Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and NEPA. The bill authorizes $200,000,000 per year for fiscal years 2026–2029, to remain available until spent, and requires those funds come from general revenues, not specified user fees. The Secretary must give congressional committees a written notice at least 3 days before publishing selected projects, including a list of applications reviewed and reports on selected projects.

What it means for you#

  • If your local natural gas utility is owned by a community or municipality, it could apply for federal grants for pipeline repairs, replacements, or equipment.
  • Projects that address leaking pipe, improve safety, or prepare systems to carry alternative energy sources are eligible uses.
  • Applicants must submit applications with project descriptions and meet civil rights and environmental review requirements.
  • Funding decisions will weigh pipeline risk, job creation, benefits to disadvantaged communities, and expected local economic effects.

Expenses#

  • The bill authorizes $200,000,000 per year for each fiscal year 2026 through 2029, to remain available until expended.
  • Not more than 12.5% of the total program funds may go to any single eligible utility.
  • Up to 2% of the annual appropriations may be used for the Secretary's administrative costs for the program.
  • Funds must come from general revenues and may not come from user fees collected under section 60301.

Proponents' View#

No publicly available information.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.