Palazzo Supports Restarting Gulf Lease Sales

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Steven Palazzo (MS-04),spoke on the House floor today in strong support of the Restarting American Offshore Leasing Act Now (H.R. 1230), which reverses the Obama Administration's policy of delaying and cancelling offshore lease sales. Later in the day, the measure passed the House 266-149:

"I am proud to support H.R. 1230. In the past year, South Mississippians have been hit hard by the Obama Administration's policies that restrict Gulf energy production. The bill I voted for today will reverse the Administration's actions by promptly proceeding with lease sales and stimulating economic growth and job creation."

This morning, Representative Palazzo spoke on House floor in support of H.R. 1230.

He said the following:
"I rise today, Mr. Speaker, in strong support of H.R. 1230. As a Congressman from Mississippi's Gulf Coast, I've seen firsthand the damaging effect of the Administration's decision to delay lease sales for offshore oil exploration. I also have worked offshore myself as a rigger, a roustabout, and a materials manager. I understand the positive economic impact offshore jobs have on the local and regional economies."

"By the administration's own admission, we've already seen 12,000 jobs lost with a direct salary impact of $500 million. To prevent these jobs from permanently being sent to other countries, we need firm timelines for considering permits to provide certainty for investors and employers. I not only support the passage of the Restarting American Offshore Leasing Now Act, but I urge the Administration to undo their record of blocking and delaying energy production and to proceed with scheduled lease sales promptly. We must not continue to unnecessarily sideline a vibrant industry that is critical to our economic and national security."

Source