Congressman Brad Sherman Will Soon Introduce Bill to Halt U.S. Oil Exports, Shield Americans from Price Spikes Amid Iran War
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32) will soon introduce the No U.S. Oil Exports During Iran War Act to halt exports of U.S.-produced crude oil during the ongoing war with Iran, aiming to protect American consumers from rising energy costs and economic instability.
“At a time of global uncertainty, we must use every available tool to protect the American people,” said Congressman Sherman. “This legislation puts American consumers first by ensuring that our energy resources are used to stabilize prices at home—not to maximize profits abroad,” Sherman added.
America produces more oil than we use. If we prohibit exports, the supply will exceed the demand, and prices will drop. Currently, American oil is going to Europe and Asia to replace Middle East oil, reducing the domestic supply and raising the prices Americans pay.
The legislation would prohibit U.S. crude oil exports until (1) the President certifies that hostilities with Iran have ceased and (2) the Strait of Hormuz is fully reopened to global commerce.
The bill would implement a targeted export ban designed to stabilize domestic energy markets, reduce inflationary pressure, and prioritize U.S. supply during a period of international crisis. It also includes limited flexibility for cases where certain crude oil cannot be efficiently refined domestically, allowing narrowly tailored export licenses provided that refined products are returned to the United States.
Recently, Congressman Sherman pressed President Trump to immediately exercise this authority and pause U.S. petroleum exports until hostilities with Iran cease and global energy markets stabilize. In his letter to Trump, Sherman emphasized that such action would help shield American consumers from unnecessary price increases, reduce inflationary pressure, and ensure domestic energy supplies remain available during a period of global instability.
“Suspending crude oil exports during the Iran War is a lawful, targeted, and necessary step,” Sherman added. “American oil should first and foremost benefit the American people.”
To read Sherman’s letter to Trump, click here.
###