Tipton Holds Field Hearing on the Big Impact of Energy Regulations on Small Business

Statement

House Small Business Subcommittee on Agriculture, Energy and Trade Chairman Scott Tipton (R-CO) today held a field hearing in Grand Junction, Colo., to examine burdensome federal energy industry regulations and policies and their impact on small businesses, jobs and consumer prices. The Subcommittee heard testimony from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator for Region 8, James Martin, as well as local and state officials and local energy business owners and employees.

"America has been blessed with abundant natural energy resources and the technology to utilize those resources in a safe and environmentally sound manner. It is beyond all common sense why the Obama administration continues to rely on volatile foreign oil and push costly regulations while our energy prices skyrocket and unemployment remains intolerably high. Unlocking our vast natural resources right here at home would solve this problem and lead us closer to energy independence using skilled American workers.

"In the president's speech to Congress, he discussed how vital small businesses are to job creation. He is right. And I hope the administration takes note of today's hearing, where we heard firsthand from small business owners on how onerous regulations and uncertainty are preventing them from making investments and hiring more employees. If our best job creators continue to be hammered with regulations, our economy will continue to falter.

"During tough economic times, it is essential that we work towards practical solutions that will protect our environment while leading us closer to an all-of-the-above energy plan. The president and Congress play a role in fostering this environment, and I am committed to working together on real solutions to our nation's job and energy challenges."

Specifically, the hearing examined the coal combustion residuals proposed rule (75 Federal Register 35127-35264), the proposed rule to limit mercury and other air toxics from coal-burning electricity generators (76 Federal Register 24976-25147), the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) regulation of greenhouse gas emissions and potential regulation of hydraulic fracturing in the natural gas industry. The hearing also focused on the permitting and leasing process of the Department of the Interior.

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