Cicilline Hammers House Republicans for Vote to Allow Drilling Off Coast of Rhode Island

Statement

U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline issued the following statement today after the House passed the Offshore Energy and Jobs Act (H.R. 2231), legislation that would open areas off the coast of Rhode Island for drilling, by a vote of 235-186:

"The United States is already poised to surpass Saudi Arabia as the world's biggest single oil producer within the next decade, according to recent projections. House Republicans still want to open up even more land to oil and gas drilling that hurts the fishing and tourism industries and could pose an immediate threat to the safety of our environment. It is irresponsible for Republicans in Congress to even allow for drilling off the coast of Rhode Island, and I will continue to oppose ridiculous, partisan proposals like this one."

"Instead of wasting valuable legislative time voting on bills that have no chance of passing the Senate or being signed into law, Republicans should be working with Democrats to pursue a long-term, comprehensive energy strategy that encourages innovative solutions, invests in renewable sources of energy and promotes energy efficiency."

Source