Officials Tout Bill Slashing Green Funds, Boosting Fossil Fuel Leasing

U.S. officials promoted new legislation dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” saying it scales back federal spending on renewable-energy programs while accelerating domestic fossil-fuel production. Secretary Wright said wind, solar and battery technologies account for only about 3% of U.S. primary energy consumption, arguing the figure underscores the need to “unshackle” oil, gas and coal development both onshore and offshore. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin added that the measure rescinds “billions of dollars” previously earmarked for what he called the “Green New Scam,” portraying the package as a win for taxpayers and a reprioritization of federal resources. The officials did not specify which programs are being eliminated or the exact amount of funding withdrawn.