Crowley Applauds House Passage of Comprehensive Energy Legislation 9/17/2008 Contact: (202) 225-3965 Miscellaneous press release (Washington, D.C.) – Congressman Joseph Crowley (D-Queens & the Bronx) voted last night for a comprehensive energy measure that will lower costs to consumers and American taxpayers, invest in renewable energy sources to create American jobs, expand domestic energy supply and create greater energy efficiency and conservation. The House of Representatives passed the Comprehensive American Energy Security & Consumer Protection Act (H.R. 6899) by a vote of 236 to 189. “With high gas prices putting a strain on millions of American families, the time has come for a comprehensive energy solution. The measure passed by the U.S. House of Representatives will provide real relief to consumers by bringing new energy sources to market and expanding our home-grown supply of oil,” said Congressman Crowley. “When it comes to diverting our nation’s reliance on foreign oil and starting a new chapter in how we meet our energy needs, there is no room for partisanship. And I am glad that after repeated opposition from those who only wanted to drill more, the House has now worked in a bipartisan way to pass this package that will provide real solutions.” Among its provisions, the Comprehensive American Energy Security & Consumer Protection Act will roll back Big Oil tax breaks in a time of record oil company profits and require oil companies to pay royalties already owed to taxpayers; invest in wind, solar and natural gas, 21st century energy sources to create millions of jobs; responsibly open up additional offshore areas for drilling with oil companies footing the bill instead of taxpayers; and release oil from the government’s stockpile to bring down gas prices. This legislation also includes the New York Liberty Zone tax incentives to rebuild mass transportation facilities destroyed by the September 11th attacks. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, Congressman Crowley has been dedicated to ensuring that New York City receives the tax benefits it needs to continue its rebuilding. “These Liberty Zone tax credits are the fulfillment of a promise made seven years ago to rebuild the mass transit system of lower Manhattan in after the September 11th terrorist attacks,” said Congressman Crowley. “If Americans are to achieve energy independence, they will need a portfolio of solutions, including investments in mass transportation. The Liberty Zone incentives are essential for New York City’s energy and economic needs, and I thank my colleagues for their support of this provision.” The New Direction Congress has taken critical steps to address our nation’s energy independence. Last year, Congress passed and the President signed historic energy legislation with provisions to combat oil market manipulation, increase vehicle fuel efficiency to 35 miles per gallon in 2020 – the first Congressional increase in more than three decades – and promote the use of more affordable American biofuels.   Washington 2404 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 (202)225-3965 Queens 74-09 37th Ave Suite 306-B Jackson Heights, NY 11372 (718)779-1400 Co-op City 177 Dreiser Loop Bronx, NY 10475 (718)320-2314 Bronx 2800 Bruckner Blvd Bronx, NY 10465 (718)931-1400