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I believe it is important for America to have a national energy policy which emphasizes greater conservation and efficiency, as well as the development of renewable resources. The environmental and security problems associated with our dependence on fossil fuels have only further increased the need for such a comprehensive policy.

Simply put, we cannot continue to rely on imported oil to meet such a large part of our nation's energy needs. This dependence places our economic security at great risk. At present, petroleum imports account for fully one-half of our national oil use and one-third of our trade deficit. In addition, the use of oil and other fossil fuels contributes to global climate change, air pollution, and acid rain.

To protect the economic and environmental health of our country, we must begin to make use of alternative power sources, including solar, wind, biomass, hydrogen, geothermal, and other renewable energy resources. In addition, we should encourage conservation and efficiency in order to reduce the demand for energy.

I am hopeful that Congress and the President can work together to approve a national energy policy that reflects these priorities in the next Congress.