WASHINGTON, D.C. July 14, 2008 – Today Congressman Calvert (R-CA) issued the following statement in response to President Bush’s announcement that he would lift an executive ban on offshore drilling in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS):

"I commend President Bush for doing what the Democratic Leadership refuses to do – allow for the domestic development of our own energy resources by lifting the ban on offshore drilling. The biggest concern on my constituents’ minds is the high price of gasoline. Hard working American families who are struggling to get by deserve nothing less than a vote in Congress on expanding offshore energy exploration before Congress adjourns for the summer recess in August.

"Improvements in technology allow for offshore energy exploration and production that is out of sight, protects coral reefs and sensitive environments, and dramatically reduces the risk of oil spills. It’s time the Democrats stop stalling on the issue and allow for domestic exploration of energy resources that will have a significant impact on the speculation bubble and help bring down the price of gas."

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