Neil's Spotlight Lawmakers speak out on new energy legislation
August 4, 2008
Congressman Neil Abercrombie (D-HI): “It is abundantly clear that the public is tired of the partisan rhetoric coming out of Washington. They want solutions.
"This working group recognizes that politics as usual will not solve our national energy crisis. A comprehensive approach must include regulatory reform, increased domestic production, conservation and real investment in renewable and alternative energy technologies. These are all part of America’s energy future.”
Congresswoman Thelma Drake (R-VA): “I agree with Neil Abercrombie when he says, ‘Right now, we’ve got 100 percent of nothing’ on energy. Now there is a bipartisan solution on the table. This bill gives voice to the beleaguered American public which has said ‘enough’ and is calling for a comprehensive solution to the energy crisis. “It is my sincere hope that the House will take up this bill and allow a vote on the bipartisan energy solution that the American people are demanding.”
Congressman Tim Walz (D-MN): “This bold agreement takes into account the short-, medium- and long-term energy challenges facing our country and takes visionary action to address each of them in a responsible manner.
"This bill creates an estimated $2.6 trillion in new revenues from royalties generated by expanded, responsible domestic oil drilling. Roughly a trillion dollars of these royalties are dedicated to financing and expediting America’s transition to a clean energy future that reduces our dependence on foreign oil and brings down energy prices at the pump and in our homes. We will tap into the American can do spirit and work in partnership with the states to accomplish this mighty goal.”
Congressman Roscoe Bartlett (R-MD): “The approval of this bill would demonstrate a commitment to promote conservation and efficiency now while expanding domestic oil and natural gas as well as renewable energy production from many sources in the future. That should have the immediate effect of reducing prices now caused by financial speculators. We are hopeful that Americans will rally around this bill and encourage Congressional leaders to schedule a vote on it in September.
“This bill offers perhaps the last chance to end the political stalemate that has strangled every previous effort during this Congress to extend these tax credits that are scheduled to expire at the end of this year. Unfortunately, uncertain and short-term tax policies in the United States since 2000 are driving investments, jobs and cleaner, renewable energy projects overseas. Republicans and Democrats agree that these tax credits are absolutely vital to expand American renewable sources of energy.”
Congressman Jim Costa (D-CA): "Our country is currently facing an energy crisis that is having a devastating effect on our economy, and particularly on the poor, working class, and small business owners. We need all the energy tools in our toolbox to help reduce our need for foreign oil, along with protecting our environment. I believe this combination of increasing supply and reducing demand, which this bill does, will reduce our energy costs, along with creating new jobs. And even more important, this bill provides a framework for moving us toward cleaner and renewable sources of energy, and toward energy independence."
Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV): "This is a prime example of Democrats and Republicans working together to find consensus and enact real solutions. With this bill we have an opportunity to use expanded oil exploration to invest in clean coal technology, conservation and other renewable resources. West Virginians are seeking solutions and this legislation is a pragmatic response to an issue that impacts all of us."
