Political Quotes

“The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management manages the development of energy and mineral resources of the Outer Continental Shelf along our Nation's coastlines. I understand the intent of the gentleman's amendment is to eliminate the Office of Renewable Energy Programs of BOEM. I will first note the base bill already cuts funding for the renewable energy account by nearly $15 million, or almost 35 percent, so about a third of it is gone in our base bill. I am also concerned that completely eliminating funding runs counter to an all-of-the-above energy approach that is necessary to ensure a mix of affordable and reliable energy sources for our constituents and businesses, and to reduce our dependence on foreign countries, some adversaries, for our energy. Additionally, I have heard from some in our Conference about their support for offshore renewable activities, which would not move forward without this BOEM office. Mr. Chair, I must, therefore, oppose this amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.”