WASHINGTON, DC . . .  Yesterday evening Rep. Hall voted with a House majority to pass H.R. 2021, the Jobs and Energy Permitting Act of 2011, which would eliminate needless permitting delays that have stalled important energy production opportunities off the coast of Alaska. The bill passed, 253-166.  

"This bill, part of the American Energy Initiative, tears down permit-approval barriers created by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and its Environmental Appeals Board," said Rep Ralph Hall. "By simplifying and expediting the procedure for obtaining permits needed for exploration drilling, we can open access to untapped resources and create new jobs in the process.  

Hall continued, "We have had 28 straight months of national unemployment at or above 8 percent, and the Administration's policies are causing more job loss, more dependence on foreign oil, and higher prices at the gas pump, which have doubled since President Obama took office.

"This bill will increase American oil production, help create energy independence, lower energy prices, put money back in the pockets of taxpayers, and create and sustain over 54,000 jobs. I have always supported across-the-board energy solutions, and will continue to work towards energy independence for our country that encourages job creation."

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