Backers of the NorthernStar Natural Gas Corp.‘s proposed Bradwood Landing liquefied natural gas (LNG) receiving terminal have joined a business-labor coalition lobbying the Oregon legislature for legislation to streamline permitting of energy and transportation projects. NorthernStar’s LNG project threw its support behind last Wednesday’s rally staged at the Oregon Capitol in Salem by Energy Action Northwest (see Daily GPI, Feb. 11). In particular, Bradwood LNG’s backers are supporting SB 1020, which they contend is needed to assure Oregon of reliable energy supplies. “Across Oregon, there are proposals to build new roads, water and sewer lines, transmission lines, rail lines and pipelines,” a Bradwood Landing spokesperson said. “Collectively, these projects would invest billions of dollars in Oregon, creating thousands of family wage jobs and putting people to work for years. Many of these projects will be funded without any taxpayer dollars.” A number of state legislators spoke in favor of the measure during the rally.

Interior Department’s Minerals Management Service reported that it netted an additional $157 million in royalty underpayments, penalties and interest in 2009 as a result of aggressive enforcement actions. “We are strongly enforcing royalty regulations and working closely with companies to ensure they comply with their obligations,” said Interior Secretary Ken Salazar. The agency said it collected $65 million through enforcement activities that include a comprehensive audit and compliance program; more than $34 million through sophisticated automated detection systems; and more than $58 million through follow-up enforcement actions, including civil penalties, negotiated settlement and other methods.

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