Steve Cohen: “My amendment would prevent any new oil and gas production under the proposed plan if those activities will have a…”

“My amendment would prevent any new oil and gas production under the proposed plan if those activities will have a negative effect on the air quality. I am a strong proponent of efforts to lower energy costs, promote energy independence, and create a stronger, more secure economy. I recognize this will take a multifaceted approach, but it must include more investment in renewable energy sources and a smart transition away from oil and gas. The fact is, for the past couple of decades the Federal Government has issued far more drilling permits than oil and gas companies have acted upon. Nearly 80 percent of offshore oil is in areas that are already open for exploration, according to the National Resources Defense Council. Oil and gas drilling is a dirty business, and we should think long and hard before we invite more of it on our Federal lands. Drilling releases several pollutants that are making our air more smoggy and more dirty and harmful to breathe. The toxic particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide, ozone, and volatile organic compounds released by oil and gas drilling can lead to many poor health outcomes, including premature births, asthma, and heart disease. It is often low-income and minority communities that bear the brunt of these awful effects.…”