Frank Pallone: “The pending amendment violates the germaneness requirement of rule XVI, clause 7. That rule precludes amendments ``on a…”

“The pending amendment violates the germaneness requirement of rule XVI, clause 7. That rule precludes amendments ``on a subject different from that under consideration.'' The subject matter of the underlying bill is a requirement that the Department of Energy issue a plan related to the leasing of Federal lands for oil and gas drilling before certain first drawdowns from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. However, the subject matter of the pending amendment is different. The pending amendment requires the suspension of certain financial regulations limiting access to financing for oil and gas companies until certain conditions are met. Now, this places an unrelated condition on the drawdown of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve that expands beyond the development of the plan required by the underlying bill. Because the pending amendment is on a different subject from that of the underlying bill, I urge the Chair to hold this amendment as not germane. The Acting CHAIR. Does any other Member wish to be heard on the point of order? The gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Barr) is recognized.”