On the recordJune 16, 2010
I thank the gentleman from Louisiana and New Orleans, especially for his leadership. I look forward to working with him as we go forward on legislation that addresses some of the concerns I have heard him express so as we may establish a real national energy policy. I would ask my colleagues to support this amendment. As I have indicated, I have obtained the time in opposition, but I will not oppose the amendment that we have both offered on the floor of the House. I will argue vigorously that this is an excellent opportunity to protect small businesses which are yet noted, which are yet listed, which are going to be impacted across that gulf from tourism in Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, on to the shrimpers, fishermen, oystermen, and to the restaurants that are now in conditions where they are shutting down and where they are letting go of their employees. They are pleading for assistance. This is a good amendment, and it is a good amendment to this legislation. It focuses on our small businesses, so I would ask my colleagues to support this amendment. I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Cao). The question was taken; and the Acting Chair announced that the ayes appeared to have it.
