Rising Gas Prices: America Deserves Leadership From the President

Rising Gas Prices: America Deserves Leadership From the President
Thursday, September 01, 2005

Statement from Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04)

"As our nation is shocked by skyrocketing gas prices and the people of Louisiana and Mississippi struggle with the tragic aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the American people are looking to President Bush and Vice President Cheney for leadership and direction.

Minnesotans and all Americans are extremely concerned as gas prices rise towards $4 per gallon. The stability of the U.S. economy is at stake, unless fuel prices stabilize and a steady supply of gas is guaranteed.

First, the vulnerability of our nation's refineries and oil and gas pipelines is apparent after Hurricane Katrina, and the security of this strategic infrastructure must be guaranteed. Protecting these vital facilities must be a top priority of the Department of Homeland Security and, if needed, our National Guard.

Second, consumers deserve protection from price gouging by suppliers and distributors. Exploitation of this crisis for short-term profits must not be tolerated and should lead to criminal prosecution.

Finally, every American needs to assess and modify our own driving habits to conserve costs, reduce consumption and protect our own pocket books. There is no indication that gas prices will fall in the near future.

Congress returns to Washington next week and I will echo the frustration of Minnesotans for Washington's lack of a reality based energy policy. Our nation's economic security is at stake and the American people deserve leadership and immediate action from both the White House and Congress."

http://mccollum.house.gov/index.asp?Type=B_PR&SEC={9C8A149F-C516-44CD-9FB9-5306C91C1B74}&DE={9EED7E16-F634-45EE-833C-EFDAAFB8D6A3}