U.S. CONGRESSMAN JOHN C. FLEMING, M.D.

Energy & Environment

Many Americans experienced a wake up call over the past year with the dramatic increases in fuel costs.  People are demanding that Congress take a common sense approach to this Nation’s energy crisis.  As a member of the Natural Resources Committee, I am working hard to provide a voice for these common sense solutions.  I am convinced that in order to meet America’s rapidly expanding energy needs and reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources, we must look for responsible ways to expand domestic production. 

The expansion of oil and natural gas production in and off the coast of Louisiana has had an enormously positive impact on our state’s economy.  As a direct result of this production vital state revenue has been accelerated, local economic development has been stimulated, and crucial jobs have been created for the people of Louisiana.  I agree we must always work towards developing cleaner and more efficient energy sources, but this cannot be done overnight. Any responsible comprehensive energy policy must include expanding production of abundantly available domestic resources such as coal, oil, natural gas, and other minerals.