Senator Frank H. Murkowski (R-AK), Ranking Member of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, released the following statement today after the House Resources Committee today approved legislation that includes provisions to allow for the exploration of a small portion of the 1002 area of the Arctic National Wildlife Area: “Today’s bipartisan victory clearly shows the broad amount of support for safe exploration in ANWR Obviously, reports of ANWR’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. “ANWR plays a critical part in reducing our dangerous dependence on foreign energy. A dependence that undermines not only our national security, but our economic and personal security as well. Using American technology and ingenuity, we can safely balance our energy needs while protecting our environment. “Senator Daschle needs to recognize America’s current energy crisis and his responsibility to help find a solution. With the House moving quickly toward a vote on a comprehensive, balanced solution, it is high time for the Senate to follow suit.” ###