US-Israel Energy Cooperation Act Passes House

US-ISRAEL ENERGY COOPERATION ACT PASSES HOUSE

Recently, a bill that I cosponsored, the US-Israel Energy Cooperation Act, passed the House. The bill establishes a grant program for US-Israeli joint ventures that would implement projects focused on alternative energy, improved energy efficiency, or renewable energy. This is an important step, as our country must invest in research and development that moves us toward energy independence.

America's reliance on Middle East oil leaves our economy vulnerable to attack. Perhaps no country understands the strategic importance of energy independence better than Israel. This bill is an important step toward reducing our dependence on Middle East oil and strengthening our alliance with the nation of Israel.

I applaud my colleagues in the House on the passage of this important piece of legislation and will continue to support such creative initiatives that not only strengthen our ties with Israel, but also move our country toward energy independence.

http://www.house.gov/list/hearing/nj01_andrews/8_7_06.html