May 11, 2007

Congressman Pitts Reintroduces Legislation to Expand America’s Oil Refining Capacity

Washington—Congressman Joe Pitts (R, PA-16) today reintroduced his legislation to expand America’s oil refining capacity and provide relief for consumers at the gas pump.  The bill calls for the Administration to identify three military bases slated for closure under the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Commission that would be suitable for locating new oil refineries.  The plan would eliminate one hurdle companies must clear before building a new refinery: finding land. Congressman Pitts’ statement follows:

“There hasn’t been a new oil refinery built in the United States in more than 30 years.  As a result, our ability to refine oil and supply gas and diesel to consumers has not kept pace with the growth in demand.  No matter how much crude oil is made available, the United States simply does not have the capacity to refine it.  This bill takes a step toward changing that by providing the one thing government can offer immediately: land.”

Background

This legislation passed in the House in 2005 as an amendment to a larger energy-related bill, but was never considered in the Senate.  With gas prices approaching record highs across the country, the need has never been greater to increase our nation’s refining capacity.  Experts say that expanding our refining capability could significantly decrease the volatility currently seen in domestic gas prices.

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