- The 40-year-old ban on most U.S. crude oil exports "very likely" will be lifted in the government spending bill, according to reports citing congressional aides from both parties, as part of a deal D.C. lawmakers are negotiating as part of spending and tax measures Congress is aiming to pass by Dec. 16.
- In the deal said to be coming together, Congress would lift the export ban while also adopting environmental and renewable energy measures, including long-term extensions of wind and solar tax credits; also under discussion is a tax credit for independent domestic refineries, especially a few in the Northeast whose profits could be hurt if oil exports are allowed.
- "There’s a view that this is the last chance" ahead of a presidential election year, says ClearView Energy Partners managing director Kevin Book.
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