On the recordJuly 24, 2024
Mr. Chairman, we are here to protect the welfare of the American public, and this provision prevents a fair return to the American taxpayer from oil and gas leasing conducted on public lands. By prohibiting the modernization of the Mineral Leasing Act, we are catering to the oil and gas interests and enabling them to continue to operate at rates that do not benefit the American people. Fossil fuels accelerate the impacts of climate change, and this amendment demonstrates my Republican colleagues would rather pay billions for disaster relief than focus on clean energy. Our economy, health, livelihoods, food security, and quality of life all depend on healthy ecosystems. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to reject this amendment and focus instead on addressing climate change and making our Nation stronger. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.
