U.S. Representative Tim Burchett (R-TN-02) introduced two bills aimed at restricting diesel fuel exports as diesel prices continue to climb.
Burchett filed H.R. 10423, which would suspend diesel exports through January 2027, and H.R. 10422, which would trigger an export restriction if the national average diesel price reaches $5 per gallon. The restriction under H.R. 10422 would remain in place until the national average falls to $4.50 per gallon or less for 30 consecutive days.
Both bills were referred to the House Foreign Affairs Committee and co-sponsored by U.S. Representative Clay Fuller (R-GA-14).
The legislation comes as diesel prices have continued to rise. According to AAA data for Monday, the national average price for diesel was $6.5107 per gallon, up from $6.5050 on Sunday, $6.2301 a week ago, and $5.5764 a month ago. AAA lists Monday’s price as the highest recorded national average for diesel.
Burchett said diesel prices affect consumers because diesel powers trucks, farm equipment, and other machinery used throughout the economy.
Oil companies are taking you for a ride. My new bill won't let them. pic.twitter.com/2XLJtFm6RK
— Rep. Tim Burchett Press Office (@RepTimBurchett) September 15, 2026
“Diesel export controls drive down prices while also helping Americans keep more money in their pockets,” Burchett said, arguing that refiners are selling diesel overseas for higher prices, reducing domestic supply. “Instead, refiners are choosing to sell their diesel for higher prices in Europe. Shipping American diesel overseas reduces domestic supply [and] drives up prices at home.”
Burchett said refiners typically make about $15 per barrel, or roughly 35 cents per gallon, but claimed refiners are currently making about $117 per barrel, or $2.78 per gallon, on diesel.
“That is a nearly 800% increase. American companies should prioritize American consumers and keep American diesel in America,” the Tennessee congressman added.
Burchett’s bills come months after President Donald Trump said he had instructed the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate major oil companies, accusing them of failing to reduce pump prices in line with lower oil costs and alleging consumers were being “gouged.”
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Kaitlin Housler is a reporter at The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network.
