With the holidays approaching and holiday travel on the rise, Americans are watching the pumps and wondering just how much their trips to be with family and friends will cost. Typically this time of year has not been one where gas prices hit record highs, but with oil prices skirting a record $100 a barrel and stockpiles at low levels, the current price of gas is well above last year’s levels and at record levels for this time of year.
Now is the time for our nation to address the energy crisis with bold action. Just as our nation made a commitment through NASA’s Apollo Program to put a man on the moon, I believe this nation must now make a commitment to energy independence. We must act quickly to end our dependence on foreign oil, increase our fuel efficiency, and address the threat of global warming.
In the coming weeks and months, Congress will be tackling these challenges head on. As a member of the House Energy & Commerce Committee and specifically, the Energy & Air Quality Subcommittee, I have been actively involved in crafting a new national energy policy. Among the steps I believe are crucial:
- Enacting the New Direction for Energy Independence Act - When passed into law, this bill will lower energy costs through greater efficiency, cleaner energy and smarter technology. It also will strengthen our national security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil and investing in home-grown biofuels.
In addition to shaping the broad provisions of this legislation, I was specifically involved in drafting language to increase industrial and home energy efficiency standards, encourage advanced battery and plug-in hybrid programs, minimize exposure to mercury in energy efficient light bulbs, and study the adequacy of railroad transportation for renewable fuels.
- Increasing Fuel Efficiency - Just last week, a court rejected the Administration’s new fuel economy standards for light trucks, including SUVs, ruling that they do not take carbon emissions into consideration. This decision echoes the sentiment I raised in a letter to the Department of Transportation arguing that the light truck ruling did not go far enough to address fuel economy of these vehicles.
- Addressing Climate Change – Our Committee work on climate change is also continuing. Check back for updates on the progress we are making.