Federal regulations present too many barriers for domestic energy production, according to Oklahoma Energy Secretary Michael Ming.

He testified today at a congressional hearing at University of Central of Oklahoma in Edmond. Congressmen James Lankford and Darrel Issa of California heard testimony from energy experts. Discussion focused on barriers to growing America's domestic energy production.

"While officials from E.P.A. say they have no intention to regulate the states, they don't have the capability to regulate the states, we're clearly seeing actions don't meet words," Ming said.

He said a move to put federal regulations over state regulatory authority has accelerated over the past ten years.

Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association Vice President of Regional Affairs Brian Woodard testified oil and natural gas account for only two percent of methane emissions, nationwide.

"To place this level of methane emisisons into context, EPA's own inventories note enteric fermentation, or cattle flatulence, contributes substantially higher quantities of methane," Woodard testified.

He says the E.P.A. clear air restrictions are too burdensome for oil and gas producers.