Energy Bill and Our Economy

ENERGY BILL AND OUR ECONOMY -- (House of Representatives - September 24, 2008)

Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speaker, one needs to look no further than the headlines in our Nation's newspapers to see the consequences of doing nothing with regard to the energy crisis facing our Nation.

We have stood idly by while skyrocketing fuel and energy prices undercut consumer confidence and are partially responsible for our current economic straits. But instead of passing a comprehensive energy bill in which all forms of energy were on the table, last week we took up legislation which will not only prove ineffective, but I believe counterproductive.

It was a bill written behind closed doors, with no input from Republicans, and even many Democrats wishing to participate. It bypassed the Natural Resources Committee and was brought to the floor under a closed rule, freezing out members of both parties, all after a promise of the most open Congress in history.

Mr. Speaker, let's not make the same mistake this week. We still have time. Bring the American Energy Act to the floor for a vote before we adjourn, and we can help address the crisis facing our Nation.

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