Chambliss: More Taxes Not the Solution to Skyrocketing Gas Prices

Press Release

Today, U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss, R.-Ga., voted against moving forward on S.2204, the Menendez Energy Tax Credits bill, which would have raised taxes on energy companies. The measure failed by a vote of 51-47. 60 votes were required to end debate.

The bill, introduced by Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J, would have increased taxes on domestic production of oil and gas, discouraged domestic drilling, and resulted in the loss of many American jobs associated with the oil and gas industry.

"Skyrocketing gas prices is one of the most important issues on the minds of Georgians. I hear from hundreds each day who struggle to fill up the gas tank to get to work, take the kids to school, or run necessary errands," said Sen. Chambliss. "It is imperative for Congress to focus on creating a policy to expand and diversify our energy sources so the American people are no longer held hostage by the prices at the pump. I am hopeful that in the future, we will take on some form of comprehensive energy legislation."

Chambliss was a co-sponsor of the 2011 Offshore Production and Safety Act, and will continue to support domestic oil and gas exploration and production. He believes it is an essential component of a comprehensive energy policy that will enable America to become more energy independent. The administration unnecessarily delays approval of drilling leases and permits and blocks critical projects such as the Keystone XL pipeline. Chambliss believes that now is not the time to tie up valuable and much-needed American energy production in bureaucratic red tape.

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