David Thomas: “Mr. Speaker, despite protestations to the contrary, this country has remained dependent on foreign energy sources…”

“Mr. Speaker, despite protestations to the contrary, this country has remained dependent on foreign energy sources, leaving our Nation vulnerable to rogue nations. Mr. Speaker, Americans have faced price spikes at the gas pump and high monthly energy bills. High energy costs have closed U.S. plants and factories and laid off U.S. workers. And as recently as last summer, U.S. cities experienced blackouts resulting from problems with the energy grid. Lacking a comprehensive energy plan has left the United States susceptible to energy shortcomings and downfalls. However, we have the opportunity today to reverse this course. Congress is poised, and I believe we are poised, to send legislation to the President that will put a balanced comprehensive energy plan in front of America's long-suffering consumers. The tax incentives included in this agreement are the most sweeping changes in energy policy in over a decade. The plan before us today encourages the use of nontraditional energy sources, wind, geothermal, solar, and other renewable sources. This diversification will foster self-reliance and lessen dependence on foreign energy supplies.”