Energy and Environment
![Energy saving lightbulb Energy saving lightbulb](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20121014043607im_/http://critz.house.gov/sites/critz.house.gov/files/styles/section_front_boilerplate/public/energy2.jpg)
I opposed the cap and trade bill because it would adversely affect American jobs.
I opposed the cap and trade bill because it would adversely affect American jobs. With that said, I believe that industries affected by emissions trading, as well as workers in those fields, should have a voice in determining future legislation on this critical subject. Nevertheless, I am a strong proponent of developing clean, alternative energy sources that will help to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. Wind power, the use of natural gas, and carbon capture and storage technology will help the United States develop its domestic energy sources while reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, I also believe that we need to continue developing technologies that allow us to develop these natural resources in the cleanest and safest way possible. Given southwestern Pennsylvania’s history, it cannot forgo its watersheds and streams to develop another natural resource. We need to be able to do both.
In addition to being a member of the Coal and Natural Gas Caucuses, I have joined my colleague, Rep. Tom Reed (NY-29) in chairing the Marcellus Shale Caucus. The Marcellus Shale Caucus serves as a bipartisan forum for members of Congress to express their opinions regarding the development of the Marcellus Shale and learn from an array of experts on the topic. Our goal is to have a conversation, so we can discuss and learn about the effects that developing the Marcellus Shale will have on each of our communities and Congressional Districts.
Knowing that many of us have a concern for animal welfare, I have cosponsored H.R. 835, the Puppy Uniform Protection and Safety Act, which would amend the Animal Welfare Act to hold breeders accountable for their dogs’ wellbeing. I have also cosponsored H.R. 1417, the Battlefield Excellence through Superior Training (BEST) Practices Act, which would require the Department of Defense to use only human-based methods, versus animal testing, for training members of the Armed Forces in the treatment of severe combat injuries.