CAES News
CONSUMER ALLIANCE FOR ENERGY SECURITY APPLAUDS BIPARTISAN ENERGY LEGISLATION
Immediate Congressional Action Needed to Address America’s Energy Crisis; New Bill Includes Efficiency, Diversity and Expanded Access to Domestic Supply
WASHINGTON, DC (August 1, 2008) – The Consumer Alliance for Energy Security (CAES), a broad coalition representing the millions of Americans who depend on reliable and affordable energy, released the following statement today on the introduction of The National Conservation, Environment, and Energy Independence Act (HR 6709) in the U.S. House of Representatives. The proposed legislation would help move the United States toward energy affordability and security by expanding access to domestic energy resources and using the funds to support alternative/renewable energy, energy efficiency and conservation, and environmental restoration. The bill would also support low-income home energy assistance.
“Today’s announcement of the House bipartisan energy package is a step in the right direction that addresses America’s energy crisis with a balanced plan. We commend the group of House members, led by Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-HI) and Rep. John Peterson (R-PA), who have developed a forward-thinking energy policy at this critical time.
“As hard-working American families face the painful consequences of high energy costs, CAES welcomes bipartisan legislation that addresses energy demand, diversity and access to new sources of domestic supply. Families should not have to choose between driving their cars, heating and cooling their homes and putting food on the table. It has become very clear that Americans support using our own resources by expanding offshore domestic energy development.
“Consumers are demanding action and expect a change in our energy policy. With bipartisan efforts in the House, we can move toward securing our own energy future. CAES calls on the House leadership to bring the newly introduced energy package to the Floor. Enactment of legislation that encourages energy efficiency, diversity and expanded access to domestic supply can help reduce the burden of high energy costs on the American consumer. By September 30, Congress must vote on legislation including domestic energy supply – don’t come home without it.”
CAES recognizes the importance of coupling environmental stewardship with responsible energy policy. This new legislation provides that an estimated $1 trillion in revenue from these newly tapped domestic energy resources will be used to fund conservation efforts and renewable energy research.”
# # #
Contact:
John Scofield (on behalf of CAES)
202-879-9358
jscofield@podesta.com
Charles Lardner (American Forest and Paper Association)
202-463-2459
Charles_lardner@afandpa.org