Watson Coleman: “Mr. Leader, I appreciate those comments. Some people dismiss such an ambitious goal as reducing our growing dependence…”

“Mr. Leader, I appreciate those comments. Some people dismiss such an ambitious goal as reducing our growing dependence on foreign oil, but I recall a time when the Moon was also once out of reach. We all know the power of America's innovative, relentless spirit when called to an objective, no matter how formative. I am particularly pleased the majority leader supports an aggressive, multifaceted energy strategy that includes renewable fuels and energy conservation. As a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, I know we cannot afford to rely on oil imports that are subject to the whims of Hugo Chavez in Venezuela or the political stability of Nigeria. The fact is that countries rated by Freedom House as ``not free'' produce more than two-thirds of the world's oil and have nearly 80 percent of the proven reserves. I believe the imperative is clear: America must free itself from its oil dependence, and I believe the solution is also clear: renewable energy and energy conservation. The Vehicle Fuel Choices for American Security Act that I have coauthored and now has 27 cosponsors lays out an ambitious plan for saving 2.5 million barrels of oil per day in 10 years, roughly the amount of oil we currently import from the Middle East, through renewables and energy conservation.…”