David Thomas: “That is exactly what we are seeking to do, and that is what price transparency will help eliminate. I could not agree…”

“That is exactly what we are seeking to do, and that is what price transparency will help eliminate. I could not agree more. Also, there has been a good deal of discussion about CAFE standards. Obviously, that has to do with conservation. It has to do with being more efficient in our use of fuel. We will be talking about CAFE standards. In fact, there will be a number of different amendments offered on CAFE standards. We look forward to those amendments. We spent a good deal of time last year discussing three amendments, and, as a consequence, we should be able to discuss and dispose of these amendments more easily this year because we have already been through the debate. The Senate has already adopted an amendment by Senator Landrieu that will require the President to develop a plan to reduce domestic petroleum consumption by 1 million barrels a day by 2013. A major reduction in oil consumption most likely will be achieved through reduction in the use of transportation fuels. As a result, the Landrieu amendment probably will focus on measuring fuel economy. That amendment may take the place of other amendments that will be offered. I think we will support an amendment offered by Senators Bond and Levin. Under that amendment, standards will be based on sound science and solid technical data.”