WASHINGTON, DC . . . Today, Rep. Ralph Hall (TX-04) joined Energy and Power Subcommittee Republicans of the Energy and Commerce Committee in passing H.R. 3826, the Electricity Security and Affordability Act. The bill offers a common sense solution to the EPA’s proposed greenhouse gas standards for new power plants and the agency’s planned regulations for existing power plants. The bill, which passed 18-11, will go on to Full Committee for consideration.

Following the Subcommittee’s passage of H.R. 3826, Hall made the following statement:

“Americans across the country and in the 4th District are concerned about their job and economic security. One of the best and easiest solutions to encourage job creation and economic growth is through domestic energy. The way we regulate our energy production is vital to our Nation’s future. That is why I am pleased to be an original cosponsor of the Electricity Security and Affordability Act. 

“I’m proud of the surface miners and producers in the 4th District who have made substantial progress in recent years to provide cleaner, more efficient, more reliable, and less costly energy resources for the good of all Americans.  In Texas, we’ve seen coal operations make significant investments and progress in advancing clean-air emission controls, employing advanced technologies, and investing in a number of research and development projects.  These companies are engaged in retrofitting efforts, renewable technologies, recycling, conservation, and reclamation – and they’ve had measureable success. 

“Yet despite significant strides, these companies continue to be met with ever more stringent proposed rules and regulations from the EPA in what appears to be this Administration’s War on Coal.

“I stand with my constituents in opposition to the President’s  War on Coal and his ‘cap-and-trade’ approach. Clean, affordable energy – and energy jobs – are what Americans need and want. It is my hope the Administration will support this legislation and true ‘all-of-the-above’ energy solutions on behalf of all Americans.”

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