Alcee Hastings: “as we consider this bill today that further opens up our precious coastal resources to the oil industry, should we not…”

“as we consider this bill today that further opens up our precious coastal resources to the oil industry, should we not also be talking about how those oil companies treat Americans at the gas pump? Should they be allowed to drill the oil that belongs to the American people and then turn around and sell it to us at unconscionable prices? They did not drill 3 years ago because the price of a barrel of oil was $30. Now it is $70, and they are ready to go drill. By that time, it will be $80, and then turn around and sell it to us at prices that are unconscionable. If the previous question is defeated, I will ask the House to take up H.R. 3936, Representative Stupak's bill. Members should be aware that a ``no'' vote will not prevent consideration of H.R. 4761 and it will not affect any of the amendments that are in order under this rule. But a ``no'' vote will allow us to vote on something to bring real relief to the American people and not degrade the environment in our Outer Continental Shelf. Vote ``no'' on the previous question. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.”