Political Quotes

“this is our third attempt at passing a comprehensive energy bill. Each manifestation inches closer to the compromise needed to pass a bill into law and fundamentally shift our Nation's energy policy. Unfortunately, we are not there yet. Our excessive dependence on foreign oil and heavy use of dirty fossil fuels are serious threats to our national security, economic security and our environment. We must lay the groundwork through a comprehensive energy policy that seeks to decrease our dependence on foreign oil by increasing domestic production in the short term. At the same time, however, we must devote substantial resources into research and development of new technologies and facilitate a gradual shift to green, renewable and domestic sources of energy. We cannot pretend to address our dependence on foreign oil or consumption of fossil fuels without increasing Corporate Average Fuel Economy, CAFE, standards. I was baffled when the House was not allowed to debate such a crucial issue during our two prior deliberations on energy bills. I have long been a proponent of increasing efficiency standards, sponsoring and cosponsoring bills to accomplish that goal in this and previous legislative sessions. I am pleased this provision was finally included by the House democratic leadership. Yet, this positive development is outweighed by a radical tax increase on our domestic oil and gas industry.”