Letter to the editor: We need smart energy policies

With inflation having risen in December, many Americans remain concerned about their economic future, as discussed in “U.S. inflation edges up, fueled by food and housing prices, but many other costs rise only mildly” (Jan. 11).

Inflation is an economy-wide issue that affects everyone. Given the role of energy as an essential difference maker for all industries, increased oil and natural gas development can help put downward pressure on costs for families and businesses.

Right now, U.S. oil and natural gas companies are producing historic levels of crude oil, making America the world’s leading producer of oil and natural gas. But we need smart policies from state and federal leaders to help U.S. energy leadership address inflation and strengthen our security long-term.

First, Congress could modernize America’s permitting process to make it easier to build all kinds of energy infrastructure — oil, natural gas, wind, solar and more. Next, the Biden administration could open more federal lands to oil and natural gas leases. Finally, policymakers could stop imposing burdensome regulations that jeopardize energy development.

If it’s energy made in America and it keeps the lights on, policymakers and candidates should support it. Leaders in Harrisburg and Washington should prioritize energy development to strengthen our shared future.

Stephanie Catarino Wissman

Harrisburg

The writer is executive director of the American Petroleum Institute Pennsylvania.