Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2008

CONTACT: Leslie Shedd
(202) 225-5565

House Passes No-Energy “Energy” Bill

Washington, DC - Last night, the House of Representatives debated and voted on H.R. 6899, the majority party’s no-energy “energy” bill, a piece of energy legislation introduced by Congressman Nick Rahall (WV-03).  Republicans spent all day yesterday rallying against the bill, which was written behind closed doors with no Republican input.  In fact, the actual bill, which is more than 290 pages, was seen only seen for the first time late Monday night, less than 24 hours before the House voted on it.

“I believe the energy crisis we are experiencing in this country is one of the most crucial issues we face today.  And it is our duty to have a debate on the available pieces of legislation that includes an exchange of ideas and is capped off by a vote on all legislation,” stated Lucas.  “I am very disappointed in my colleagues who felt the need to draft their bill under the cloak secrecy, giving less than 24 hours to read the bill before we voted on it, and giving almost no time for real debate.”

H.R. 6899, while calling itself a “comprehensive energy act” would actually continue to keep 88% of offshore oil reserves under lock and key and does not allow states to share in the revenues from the allowable exploration.  In addition, it includes no provisions to allow for new nuclear power plants or new oil refineries and disallows all oil exploration in ANWR.

“The American people want energy legislation that increases American-produced energy and that utilizes all of the vast natural resources in this country,” stated Lucas.  “What they don’t want is a political ploy that does nothing to wean this country off its $700 billion a year foreign oil habit.  That is why I support the American Energy Act, the real energy act that utilizes America’s natural resources to end our dependency on foreign oil, creates American jobs, and encourages energy conservation and efficiency.”

The majority’s no-energy “energy” bill passed the House by a vote of 236-189.  Congressman Lucas voted against the bill.

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