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Washington, DC– Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) this week introduced legislation to secure Fort Knox’s energy independence, a major priority for installation commanders and leaders at the Pentagon. The bill would keep intact a pre-existing contract that saves taxpayer money while supporting Fort Knox’s energy security.

“Natural gas production and use at Fort Knox plays a tremendous role not only in providing financial savings for the Department of Defense (DOD), but also in defending our nation through increased military readiness. The U.S. Army depends on Fort Knox’s supply of natural gas to maintain energy independence on post, making the installation one of the most forward-looking in the Army’s portfolio. The Department of the Interior’s (DOI) threats to challenge the production contract over jurisdictional concerns could cost the Army $18 million and ultimately increase the long-term cost of energy for Fort Knox,” said Congressman Guthrie.

H.R. 4984 provides a one-time exception to the Mineral Leasing Act for natural gas production and use at Fort Knox, keeping an existing contract intact and allowing the Army to continue using natural gas at Fort Knox into the future.

“There is too much at stake here to let this issue become a jurisdictional battle. The creative approach to energy development taken by leaders at Fort Knox is a successful example of a win-win situation in which we secure energy independence, support Army readiness, and save taxpayer money,” added Congressman Guthrie. “I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House to pursue all legislative avenues to advance this important provision.”

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