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In the News
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Press Release Archive
November 18, 2002
ENERGY BILL PASSES
WASHINGTON, D.C. - After years of bipartisan negotiation, the Energy Policy Act of 2003 conference report was passed by a 246-180 vote in the House of Representatives. U.S. Rep. Todd Akin said the measure, which will help modernize aging energy infrastructure while promoting conservation, is "a significant effort toward making America more energy self-sufficient."
"This bill is important to our energy independence, ability to create jobs and national security," said Akin, a member of the House Science Committee. "We must have a realistic, comprehensive energy policy for this nation, and this bill is a major step in that direction.
"I am especially pleased that my friend U.S. Rep. Jerry Costello (D-IL) and I were able to include funding for our 'clean coal' initiative in the energy bill. Our provision will encourage production of a vital energy resource in an environmentally friendly way. The coal industry is essential to the greater St. Louis economy, and I am pleased this measure will go forward.
"By encouraging research into new forms of energy including hydrogen-powered automobiles and renewable energy production programs, we are looking to the future. By investing in clean coal technologies, electrical transmission networks, oil and gas exploration and by encouraging hydropower production we ensure that we have a more stable economy and a means to promote future developments
"Although this bill does not have every provision the House originally passed nearly three years ago, it is a wise compromise and good start down the road to energy independence."
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