Rogers Objects to Tax Hike on $3+ Gas

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, MI-08, said energy legislation brought before the U.S. House today would be a disaster for the entire nation, but especially for Michigan where we can't afford higher energy prices.

"Michigan drivers and businesses cannot afford to pay higher taxes at the pump when gas is already over $3 a gallon and climbing," Rogers said. "The energy measure offered by Democrat leaders today is the fourth such piece of legislation in a year, all based on higher energy taxes that will drive up prices. Increasing the cost of gasoline and other crucial energy resources would be a disaster for Michigan families struggling in a tough economy."

Rogers cited numbers from the American Automobile Association (AAA) showing that nationally gasoline prices are up about 80-cents a gallon from a year ago and in Michigan drivers are paying approximately 70-cents a gallon more at the pump. Numbers are from the AAA Fuel Gauge Report found at http://www.fuelgaugereport.com.

Rogers noted that during the 2006 election campaign, current Speaker Pelosi promised a "common sense plan" to reduce gas prices followed by promises early last year that America would have "energy independence by July 4, 2007." Instead of delivering on those promises, politically charged energy proposals are being offered that some House Democrats oppose and the Senate refuses to consider. The measure under consideration today would increase energy taxes about $18 billion for Americans.

"Higher energy costs are job killers," Rogers said. "Michigan needs the same thing all America needs, comprehensive and strategic energy solutions that move us away from our dependence on oil, especially foreign oil, and toward a secure, diverse energy supply.

"It is well past time to end this unproductive political partisanship and give America solid energy solutions that stabilize the national economy and lay a foundation to begin rebuilding Michigan's economy and creating jobs."

Rogers has introduced and also co-sponsored legislation that would open up opportunities for U.S. automakers and auto suppliers to innovate America into a future in which alternate energy such as battery power, ethanol, bio-fuel, and other sources reduce our dependence on oil.

"If we develop alternate energy sources, America will no longer be held hostage by its dependence on oil," Rogers said. "Michigan is uniquely positioned to take the lead on developing new energy sources. GM has already proven with its major investment in the Chevy Volt, that innovation is possible. Ford and Chrysler also are working on several fronts to advance development of alternate energy sources.

"More auto-related research and development is done in Michigan than in the other 49 states combined. Congress needs to get out of its politically motivated ‘let's punish the automakers mode,' and allows our engineers, designers, and auto workers to unleash their ability to innovate. That would put America and Michigan back on track."

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