Todd Tiahrt: “to this date, America has not had a comprehensive energy policy. The results were expressed last year when President…”

“to this date, America has not had a comprehensive energy policy. The results were expressed last year when President Clinton's Energy Secretary Bill Richardson admitted, ``It is obvious that the Federal Government was not prepared. We were caught napping. We got complacent.'' Mr. Speaker, we all agree that these problems do not happen overnight and they cannot be solved overnight, but with Americans now facing rising utility bills, high gasoline prices and rolling blackouts and brownouts, I believe Congress must act to pass President Bush's far-reaching plan which is balanced and responsive in addressing America's energy needs. The President's plans offers 105 specific recommendations to address America's current energy shortage and provides reliable and affordable supply for the future. It starts with conversation and includes friendly changes to increase our domestic supply, improve delivery, reform outdated regulations and encourage energy diversity. It is unnecessary that nearly 60 percent of America's oil is imported. It is unbelievable that large portions of our oil and gas are in hands of Mommar Quadaffi and Saddam Hussein. It is outrageous that Members of this House choose to put politics before the people. Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to adopt the President's energy plan.”