Jim Renacci: “I want to thank my colleague. I rise today in support of the Flores amendment, which would make public States that have…”

“I want to thank my colleague. I rise today in support of the Flores amendment, which would make public States that have established efficient and regulatory programs that both encourage domestic development of our resources and protect the environment and health of our citizens. My home State of Ohio has some of the most transparent and robust oil and gas regulations in the Nation, which in many cases far surpass Federal regulations. In fact, since 1953, over 80,000 wells have been hydraulically fractured in Ohio without a single case of groundwater contamination. At the same time, we are experiencing an energy renaissance that is estimated to bring more than 65,000 jobs and contribute nearly $5 billion to Ohio's economy by 2014. Ohio now has the potential to be a leader in domestic energy production and would bring much needed high-paying jobs and economic growth to northeast Ohio. It is clear that prudent and responsible development of our resources that creates jobs, enhances our national security and energy independence, and impacts long-term economic growth should not be a partisan issue. I urge my friends on both sides of the aisle to support this amendment and the underlying bill.”