Harris Joins Calls to Halt Imports of Russian Energy

“As a longstanding supporter of increasing and expanding domestic American energy production, we must act now.  The Administration and Congressional

Democrats should join us in standing up to Vladimir Putin.” -Congressman Andy Harris

WASHINGTON, DC: Rep. Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) today co-sponsored the Prohibition on Imports of Russian Oil Act, which would bar the importation of Russian energy products to the United States.  This action would cut off a significant source of funding to the Russian economy, as petroleum exports represent 25% of their total exports.  As America currently purchases approximately 700,000 barrels of petroleum products per day from Russia, this action will be critical to furthering the economic sanctions the U.S. imposes on them as they wage unprovoked war in Ukraine.

This proposal, led by Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK), also comes at a time when the Biden Administration hampered and directly halted domestic American energy production, leading to increased energy costs for everyday families and placing the country in a challenging geopolitical situation.

Congressman Harris issued the following statement:

“I am a longstanding supporter of increasing and expanding domestic American energy production, and frustratingly, the radical anti-energy policies of this Administration and Congressional Democrats have raised costs at the pump and in the home, and precariously increased reliance upon OPEC nations for our energy needs.  This could not have come at a worse time, as Russia is waging a ruthless and indiscriminate military campaign in sovereign Ukraine.  Congress must quickly pass this bill to further cripple the Russian economy.”