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On the Issues: Energy

America must focus on long-term balanced solutions to meet our nation's energy needs. It is clear that we need to make energy more available and affordable, but the Administration's energy proposals focus too much on drilling and too little on conservation and renewable energy technologies. We should concentrate our efforts on developing better energy efficient technologies and on using a stronger hand at the diplomatic table to increase the flow of imported oil from non-OPEC nations. Republicans and the Administration are proposing temporary fixes instead of long-term solutions to decreasing our dependency on oil. For example, we do not need to plunder our environment by drilling off the coast of Florida and opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge or the Gulf of Mexico to oil drilling.

There are many viable energy alternatives that will enable the United States to substantially reduce its consumption of fossil fuels. These include encouraging the energy industry to restructure and become more efficient by investing in safe, clean, sustainable energy alternatives like solar, wind, hydropower, and bio-fuel alternatives like ethanol. Another important step we must take is to significantly improve the fuel economy of every car on the road today. These improvements would mean significant cost savings to consumers, fewer pollutants entering our air and water, and substantially reduced demand for foreign oil.

In the 110th Congress, I have given my full support to the Democratic initiative to end excessive tax subsidies to big oil corporations. This plan includes a vital investment into clean, renewable energy sources and overall energy efficiency by repealing billions in subsidies given to big oil companies that are raking in record profits. The measure would ensure oil companies that were awarded the 1998 and 1999 leases for drilling paid their fair share in royalties. It would also close loopholes and end giveaways in the tax code for Big Oil.

I believe that Congress has a responsibility to support environmentally responsible, long-term energy policies that truly address the growing economic and national security concerns of the American people. As such, I will continue my commitment in the 110th Congress to supporting a comprehensive energy plan that promotes independence and protects our nation’s resources and the health of our communities.