WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — President Donald Trump has invoked the Defense Production Act to support domestic petroleum production, refining and fuel logistics as high energy costs continue to pressure farms and other businesses.
The presidential determination classifies petroleum exploration, production, pipelines, storage, refining and marine terminals as resources essential to national defense. It also says private industry may not expand those capabilities quickly enough without federal action.
The order authorizes purchases, purchase commitments, financial support and other measures under Section 303 of the Defense Production Act. It also waives several standard requirements to speed efforts aimed at expanding domestic capacity.
For producers, the most direct issue is diesel and other farm fuel costs. The order could support projects that improve supply and logistics, but it does not identify specific projects or estimate how much consumer fuel prices might decline.
The administration says the action is intended to reduce supply-chain risks and strengthen domestic energy security amid global disruptions affecting petroleum markets.
