Issue Position: Energy

Issue Position

We must strengthen our energy security by increasing domestic energy supplies and reducing our dependence on foreign oil. U.S. dependence on foreign oil has risen dramatically. This not only impacts the economic bottom-line for American families, but could pose a serious threat to our national security in times of crisis.

Studies by the U.S. Geological Survey estimate that very limited drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in the state of Alaska could yield up to 16 billion barrels of oil, an amount roughly equal to 30 years of oil imports from Saudi Arabia. While the energy package considered by Congress in 2005 does not contain provisions for additional drilling in the ANWR region, the debate of ANWR is far from over. The Congressman will continue to voice his support for further exploration in the ANWR area.

As of now, there are 18 different fuel types and around 45 different fuel blends (known as boutique fuels) nationwide, once the various octane levels are factored in. The growing number of boutique fuels is due to compliance with the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments. The Congressman is completely opposed to the convoluted nature of this process. A more streamlined approach not only makes common sense overall, but especially in times of disaster.

The last U.S. oil refinery was built in 1976 in Garyville, Louisiana. It is completely unacceptable that this nation has been without the construction of a new refinery for almost thirty years. By 2010, the U.S. refining industry will have invested upwards of $20 billion to comply with new clean fuel regulations. This is another clear example of the federal government placing excessive burden on private business. The Congressman fully supports amending the regulatory restrictions placed on those who are providing the fuel that this nation depends on.

Source