Issue Position: Energy

Issue Position

As a nation, it is imperative that we invest in, develop and bring to market alternative sources of energy. It is a matter of economic, environmental and national security. Our country will never completely do away with all foreign sources of oil, but we can take steps now to offset those imports with domestic alternative resources. At the same time, we must encourage the use of energy efficient standards for appliances and in the contruction industry. Additionally, we must embrace conservation and technology to lower energy costs. These domestic investments will spur job creation and engance environmental protection.

During the first 100 hours of the 110th Congress, I was pleased to support legislation that repealed tax cuts for the oil and gas industry and instead invested in the development of domestic alternative energy sources. I have cosponsored legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and place greater emphasis on energy efficiency. And, as gasoline prices rise, I have cosponsored legislation to give state Attorneys General and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) the authority to enforce price gouging. The legislation also directs the FTC to facilitate market transparency in order to mitigate price volatility in the energy markets so that families and small businesses are not paying exorbitant prices.

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