WALSH STATEMENT ON ENERGY EXPLORATION BILL

(Washington D.C.)- Washington, D.C. - I intend to support H.R. 4761, the Deep Ocean Energy Resources Act, scheduled for a House vote later this evening.

The United States cannot continue to rely so heavily on foreign sources of oil.  These are our reserves and our resources, and we need to tap them.  This vote has both economic and national security implications.

While I have expressed environmental concern for such exploration of our energy-rich Outer Continental Shelf in the past, this legislation provides for environmentally sound deep sea drilling fifty-plus miles from America's shoreline and gives some power to individual states to determine what is in their own best interests.

Last year's hurricanes on the Gulf Coast confirmed that current technology can ensure safe deep sea exploration and drilling for oil.  In fact, some have argued that the current ban increases coastline and port traffic from oil tankers from abroad, a far riskier venture than platform drilling.

This legislation is not a final solution to America's energy concerns, but it is a strong compromise.  With the influx of more domestic-produced oil on the market as a result of this legislation, 25th District consumers will eventually see a difference at the pump.

END
 

(####)

Home | Press List