Today, the House Natural Resources Energy and Minerals Subcommittee held a hearing on “The American Conservation and Clean Energy Independence Act” (H.R. 2227), a bipartisan bill sponsored by Representatives Tim Murphy (R-PA) and Neil Abercrombie (D-HI) to expand offshore drilling on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). 

Many Democrats continue to support policies that throw up bureaucratic roadblocks and stall American energy production (example: the Waxman Markey’s National Energy Tax and the Democrats’ CLEAR bill).  But today members from both sides of aisle agreed on the need for a comprehensive energy plan that includes offshore drilling along with renewable energy such as wind, solar, hydropower and nuclear.

 “The Natural Resources committee has the responsibility to take steps to address how to create more nuclear, solar, hydropower, and wind energy, and increase the production of domestic oil and gas, to reduce costs and create jobs for American citizens.” – Subcommittee Ranking Member Doug Lamborn  (R-CO)

 “We need to use every tool in our energy toolbox that is available to us in this country and around the world. We need short-term, long-term and medium-term solutions and not be blinded by pre-existing notions.” – Subcommittee Chairman Jim Costa (D-CA)

“What we have to do in Washington is stop playing politics with our energy future and finally embrace a comprehensive, bipartisan approach to energy that includes investment in exploration, innovation, conservation to unleash the vast potential of America’s bountiful resources.” Congressman Tim Murphy (R-PA)

 “H.R. 2227 will lead us to genuine conservation, genuine clean energy and genuine independence for this nation.” – Congressman Neil Abercrombie (D-HI)

“American needs more energy development and more energy jobs. The Murphy-Abercrombie bill will promote some energy development and some new jobs, but more offshore drilling is just one piece of the puzzle. America needs an all-of-the-above energy plan to develop all our energy resources and create all the jobs we can.” – Ranking Member Doc Hastings (R-WA)

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