Political Quotes

“This amendment prohibits an entity from providing oil and gas to fill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve as part of the Secretary's plan if those activities will negatively impact air quality. Yet, the amendment does not define negative impact. Under this amendment, you could have 1 hour of emissions increases that are below Federal requirements for air quality, and you would be disqualified under this bill. The oil and gas industry has made great strides in reducing the emissions of their operations. This amendment is creating an extralegal and difficult to ascertain and comply with standard that will prevent us from being energy secure for real emergencies. Let's not forget that we produce American energy in the most environmentally responsible way, and our environmental standards are the highest in the world. Mr. Chair, I urge a ``no'' vote on this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Cohen). The question was taken; and the Acting Chair announced that the noes appeared to have it.”