Congressman Ricehouse questions CFIUS on Foreign Risks to Texas Energy Security

Texas is at the forefront of U.S. energy security, playing a crucial role in refining capacity, export terminals, pipeline systems, and electric grid infrastructure. These facilities are vital not only for the state but also for the nation's energy independence. However, concerns are rising as foreign-backed firms seek to acquire assets or real estate near these critical sites, posing potential risks to national security.

During a recent meeting of the U.S. House Committee on Financial Services, lawmakers discussed the increasing sophistication of adversaries attempting to exploit economic access points within the energy sector. Congressman Ricehouse emphasized the need for robust investment screening tools to identify and mitigate these risks, particularly when the infrastructure supports national defense and economic resilience.

In response, officials from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) highlighted their ongoing efforts to address these challenges. They noted that energy security remains a top priority, with the Department of Energy actively assessing transactions that could threaten energy production or critical infrastructure. The focus is on identifying problematic investors and evaluating whether proposed deals could introduce vulnerabilities into essential energy assets.

As the landscape of foreign investment evolves, the commitment to safeguarding U.S. energy infrastructure is paramount. The discussions at this meeting underscore the importance of vigilance in protecting national interests and ensuring the resilience of the energy sector against foreign threats. Moving forward, continued collaboration between government agencies and lawmakers will be essential to fortify the nation's energy security.