Political Quotes

“I think I was involved with that. However, the rule is a missed opportunity for taxpayers, the environment, and energy. It has some serious assaults on the environment that will mortgage the next 50 years of our environmental future because of a few short-term energy challenges. I am disappointed that the rule would not allow us to make it better. I did reference the bicycle pilot project. That is something that will enable the Federal Government to educate commuters and provide funds to zero in on exactly what benefits will accrue in terms of energy as a result of cycling, and I think that is important. It is a net benefit for the environment. Every mile that is spent cycling to work or shopping is a mile not traveled by a car. It reduces congestion, protects the environment, and reduces our dependence on foreign oil. I am sad that we were not able to correct the inequity in the current tax structure that subsidizes people to drive as opposed to using other alternatives. We should have the commuter choice alternative that would have provided balance so taxpayers can make the decision based on what is the best transportation and energy choice for them, not skewed by the Tax Code. It is a missed opportunity to debate amendments to reduce taxpayer subsidies for fossil fuels, reduce the negative impacts on the environment and oil consumption and shift to alternatives.”