Methane Emissions Reduction Act

HR 5964, the Methane Emissions Reduction Act, directs the U.S. Secretary of Energy to lead a federal program reducing methane emissions from oil and gas production, specifically targeting the wasteful flaring and venting of natural gas. The Secretary must provide technical assistance to states and industry, accelerate technology development for capturing wasted gas, maintain a national database of state regulations, and inform stakeholders about gas capture options. Within 270 days of enactment, the Secretary must submit a detailed report to Congress on existing regulations, technology initiatives, barriers to adoption, and recommendations for improvement. This bill directly affects oil and gas producers (through state regulatory pathways) and state regulators responsible for overseeing emissions on private and state lands.