Introduces Tax Credit to Help with Rising Gas, Energy Costs

Press Release

Congressman Bill Sali has introduced a bill that would provide real, tangible - and timely - help to the tens of millions of Americans hit hard by skyrocketing energy prices.

The Family Energy Relief Act (FERA) of 2008 will provide American taxpayers with a tax credit of $1,000 for couples, $500 for individuals and $250 per dependent. The measure already has garnered significant support.

"For ordinary families, trips to the gas station have become a financial hardship. I am hearing from Idahoans more and more that they can't afford to buy gas to get to work, pay their mortgages or visit sick relatives. Farmers are being squeezed by increased fuel, feed and fertilizer costs. Truckers are paying nearly $5 a gallon for diesel. It is killing their industry and increasing the cost of everything we buy," said Sali. "This is a national emergency. Congress must act to provide some kind of relief to the millions of Americans hit hard by skyrocketing fuel prices.

"Our country needs all of the energy we can get our hands on from every source possible. We need more American energy exploration and production, in ANWR and offshore, in oil sands and oil shale; new nuclear power facilities; more hydro- and wind-power; and the development of new technologies, such as hydrogen and electric automobiles. But American families can't afford the wait. They need relief now from these crushing gas and diesel prices. My plan provides simple, clear and timely assistance for today's high fuel prices. Idaho families would see this help in just a few months.

"I sincerely hope Speaker Pelosi recognizes the toll this is taking on our constituents. She should change her mind and allow Congress to vote on drilling in ANWR and offshore. But, that will not be enough. Americans need help now, so I hope she will also bring this commonsense legislation to the floor to give Americans the short-term relief they need," concluded Sali.

Sali has been joined by 22 original cosponsors, including senior House Republican leaders: Roy Blunt, (R-MO), David Davis (R-TN), Joe Wilson (R-SC), Trent Franks (R-AZ), Tim Walberg (R-MI), Gresham Barrett (R-SC), Dave Weldon (R-FL), Thaddeus McCotter (R-MI), John Doolittle (R-CA), Mary Fallin (R-OK), Rob Bishop (R-UT), Jack Kingston (R- GA), John Duncan (R-TN), Harold Rogers (R-KY), John Shimkus (R-IL), Thelma Drake (R-VA), Lynn Westmoreland (R-GA), Ron Paul (R-TX), Eric Cantor (R-VA), Marilyn Musgrave (R-CO), Tom Cole (R-OK), Steve Scalise (R-LA).

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