Randy Weber: “This amendment severely limits the potential for energy production by prohibiting lands within the Outer Continental…”

“This amendment severely limits the potential for energy production by prohibiting lands within the Outer Continental Shelf from being included in the leasing plan. Here is a factoid that my colleagues across the aisle need to understand: virtually all oil and gas leasing in the OCS occurs in the Gulf of Mexico. Oil and gas exploration in the Outer Continental Shelf accounts for roughly 15 percent of all domestic oil production and 2 percent of domestic natural gas production. By actually further limiting this vast resource, are they going to bring American energy prices down? No way. If we limit this vast resource we will not--I repeat, we will not--be able to meet the demand for oil and gas. For that reason, I urge a ``no'' vote on this amendment. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentlewoman from North Carolina (Ms. Manning). The question was taken; and the Acting Chair announced that the noes appeared to have it.”