Steve Buyer: “I rise in opposition to further increases in CAFE standards, and in defense of the common sense compromise that the…”

“I rise in opposition to further increases in CAFE standards, and in defense of the common sense compromise that the Energy and Commerce Committee has included in the energy bill. Like most everyone, I support fuel conservation. Conservation can reduce dependence on foreign oil and enhance environmental protection. That's why the Committee developed a compromise that sets an achievable conservation goal while protecting jobs and safety. The compromise would produce substantial fuel savings by setting a goal of saving 5 billion gallons between 2004 and 2010. This is a good and balanced compromise. But some want to go beyond this compromise and set a new CAFE number. This would be a big mistake because this amendment will jeopardize jobs and public safety. Proponents of the amendment also seem to disregard these safety concerns. A strong and growing body of evidence indicates that increased CAFE standards result in increased traffic deaths. We shouldn't pass these kinds of huge increases without fully understanding or considering these safety concerns. Let's conserve fuel, but let's do it safely. Support the Committee's compromise, oppose further CAFE increases.”