House Republicans on Thursday approved a controversial fossil fuel bill that would dramatically increase US oil, gas and coal production, AFP reported.

A bill that is said to lower energy costs for American households – a Republican campaign promise in the midterm elections – is unlikely to pass.

Democrats have announced they are blocking the bill

Democrats, who control the Senate, strongly oppose the bill, accusing the opposition of giving a gift to the American oil industry.

In particular, the bill repeals a number of environmental standards and regulations to significantly increase fossil fuel production.

It would also undo programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, especially methane.

Energy leaders against pollution

Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said the bill would “restore America’s energy leadership.”

Four Democrats, including several from the oil state of Texas, joined their Republican colleagues in voting for the measure.

A large majority of Democrats, on the other hand, condemned the bill, which “favors polluters over citizens.”

The leader of the Democrats in the Senate, Chuck Schumer, assured that the text would be “stillborn” in the upper chamber, reports AFP.