Domenici Statement on House "Energy" Bill
August 4, 2007
10:54 AM
WASHINGTON – In response to legislation passed by the House of Representatives that claims to address America’s energy needs, U.S. Senator Pete Domenici, ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, made the following statement:
“The bill passed by the House today marks the second attempt by House Democrats to pass legislation that addresses America’s need for a secure energy future. They are now 0 for 2.
“The bill passed by the House takes the wrong approach. At a time when consumers are already paying high gas prices, the bill proposes to impose punitive taxes on America’s energy suppliers. Not only will this raise prices, it will also create a competitive advantage for foreign companies doing business in the United States.
“The House bill also contains a modified Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) proposal, which places an unfair burden on states that lack the natural resources to meet the standard and will undoubtedly raise electricity prices for consumers. This RPS scheme continues to have significant opposition in the Senate and would be a major obstacle to final passage of this bill.
“The Senate has passed much more reasonable legislation, while rejecting similar tax measures that would have resulted in higher prices. As we head into a Senate-House conference, I remain committed to legislation that will diversify our fuel supplies and increase efficiency without jeopardizing domestic production of energy and raising prices for consumers.”
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