Christopher Shays: “I support H.R. 6 and am excited Congress is considering legislation that finally recognizes the energy demand course we…”

“I support H.R. 6 and am excited Congress is considering legislation that finally recognizes the energy demand course we are on is simply unsustainable if we do not take control of our over-consumption. The fact is, with only 3 percent of the world's oil but 25 percent of its use, the U.S. can never drill our way to energy security. I am glad to be supporting policy that reduces the demand for oil by emphasizing conservation. Only by creating a forward-looking energy policy that reduces demand for energy, and in particular oil, will we be able to lower gas prices. I am pleased this bill requires a fleetwide corporate average fuel economy standards for cars, sport utility vehicles, work trucks, and medium and heavy duty trucks of 35 miles per gallon for cars and SUVs by 2020. In my view, this is the least we can do. While I would prefer to attain a higher standard sooner, I am pleased we are taking the first congressionally mandated increase since 1975. I believe raising CAFE standards is one of the most significant steps we can take as a nation to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, improve our national security, and protect our environment and economy. Even a modest increase in CAFE standards would save more oil than would be produced by drilling in the Arctic National Refuge. I am also very grateful that the legislation will build a market for renewable energy and alternative fuels.”