House Passes Comprehensive Energy Plan

“Conservation, Responsible Exploration Key to Energy Self Sufficiency”

August 3, 2001

WASHINGTON - Calling it “sound policy that will meet our nation’s energy needs while protecting the environment,” Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas) praised the House today for passing the first comprehensive energy policy in a quarter century. The House passed the Securing America’s Future Energy Act late Wednesday night with bipartisan support, 240-189.

“President Bush promise a strategic energy plan that would fulfill our nation’s energy needs, Dreier said. “The vote in the House earlier this week was the first step in making it a reality. I commend the President and my colleagues here in the House for moving this debate forward. We have the technology now to increase our energy supply while preserving the environment. We need a 21st century energy plan to get the 21st century economy moving again.”

The Securing America’s Future Energy Act, H.R. 4, was the result of the work of several House Committees. The bill includes tax credits aimed at conservation efforts for personal homes and businesses. It also points to responsible exploration and development as a way to decrease our dependency on foreign oil. Dreier noted that any legislation that will increase our energy supply and encourage conservation is good for the state of California, as well the nation.

“Anything we can do to encourage conservation and increase the supply of energy is very important to California,”Dreier said. “The people of California know how challenging an energy crisis can be. This energy plan is aimed at ensuring that what happened to California at this beginning of this summer doesn’t happen again anytime soon. We need a long term energy strategy to make sure our public safety is protected and our long term economic progress is secure.

“I am hopeful that the Senate will act quickly on this legislation, so we can enact a comprehensive plan to reduce our dependence on imported oil and ensure a stable supply of electricity for years to come.”