“The solution to our fuel crisis is growing on farms in Tennessee and across the country – corn, soybeans and other agricultural products,” Tanner said. “Investing in those solutions now will bolster our rural communities and end our addiction on foreign energy sources. The nation will be stronger for us and those who come after us.”

Among the provisions called for in HR 5372 are:

• rapidly expanding production and distribution of crop-based biofuels such as ethanol;

• increasing the number of biodiesel pumps at gas stations;

• encouraging the manufacturing of biodiesel and dual-fueled automobiles;

• providing incentives for small businesses to produce ethanol;

• and educating the public about the advantages of renewable farm-based fuels.

“The record-high gas prices today remind us about our long-term energy vulnerabilities,” said Tanner, who also helped the House pass a bill asking for FTC investigation into possible oil-company price gouging. “One major part of the solution is to invest in new strategies to secure our energy supply for the future.

“I am proud that Tennessee farmers have an opportunity to help America solve its energy crisis, diversify our energy portfolio and enhance our national security by ending our dependence on foreign oil.

Tanner represents Tennessee’s 8^th congressional district in west and middle Tennessee. He serves in the Democratic Caucus’ Rural Working Group, which focuses on how rural communities can play a leading role in solving problems facing the country.