Energy

For years, scientists have been warning us that the world is running out of economically extractable oil and gas.  Today, the energy crisis is a top concern of the people of the 14th district of Illinois.  When I listen to people, I frequently hear about the burden high energy costs place upon families, and I am asked about how our country should respond to the rising costs of energy.  

As a country and as a Congress, we need to begin to find long-term solutions that make business and scientific sense.  These solutions should include an expansion of domestic onshore and offshore drilling, an investment in new and existing clean energy alternatives like solar power, deep drilled geothermal power, wind energy, and efficiency improvements and sensible development of biofuels.

At the end of July, I became an original co-sponsor of a bipartisan, commonsense energy bill.  The National Conservation, Environment and Energy Independence Act focuses on increased domestic production, conservation and the promotion of America’s energy independence.  Specifically, the bill permits domestic exploration and extraction of oil and natural gas in areas such as the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS).  Part of the revenue obtained from the new leases will be directed toward the development of alternative energy sources. In addition, the bill repeals prohibitions preventing federal agencies from entering into contracts for procurement of an alternative or synthetic fuel.  The bill also provides tax incentives and deductions for renewable energy and energy conservation.