Jay Rockefeller: “it is with a tremendous amount of frustration and disappointment that I come before the Senate to discuss the failure of…”

“it is with a tremendous amount of frustration and disappointment that I come before the Senate to discuss the failure of efforts in the 107th Congress to craft an energy bill. I have been a long-time advocate of a comprehensive national policy that would address the national and economic security aspects of this country's growing demand for energy, as well as the importance of protecting our environment. I was very proud of the work the Senate had done this year to produce this legislation. Under the leadership of Majority Leader Tom Daschle and Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chairman Jeff Bingaman, the Senate did what many in Washington thought impossible--we produced balanced and responsible energy legislation combining increased domestic production of conventional fuels, expanded use of alternative and renewable energy sources, and energy conservation and efficiency programs. Unfortunately, in our rush to complete work on a number of pending matters, many Senators chose to not proceed with Conference negotiations, acquiescing in what I would characterize as a strategy to scuttle this worthwhile bill. Perhaps the thought was that a better bill--or at least one that better met a different set of priorities--could be crafted next year. Candidly, I doubt it. I believe the demise of the Energy bill this year is unfortunate for West Virginia, and for the entire nation.”