U.S. CONGRESSMAN BILL JOHNSON Proudly Representing Eastern and Southeastern Ohio

Energy

Energy independence and security are the next great frontiers for America, and domestic energy production is poised to be the catalyst that launches the next great era of American exceptionalism.  In order to lower energy prices, create much-needed jobs, and make America more energy independent, I support a true “all of the above” approach to energy development. This approach starts with going after America's own natural resources, including the vast oil and natural gas reserves in America – onshore, offshore, and in shale plays across America like the Marcellus and Utica Shales.  Such an "all of the above" vision includes continuing to harvest America's vast coal reserves - coal is the cheapest, most reliable form of energy on the planet and we have enough coal in America to fuel our energy needs for generations to come.   Expansion of our nuclear power capabilities would be included in this “all of the above” approach to energy, as would finding a place in our energy portfolio for alternative sources of energy like wind and solar as long as they can survive in the free market with no government assistance. Every source of energy, including oil, gas, coal, nuclear, wind, and solar all have a place in America's energy portfolio.

Such an energy vision that harnesses America's exceptionalism will lead to new innovations and technologies around domestic energy production, storage, distribution, and useage, and will lead us to economic prosperity, job growth, and energy independence. Americans deserve real leadership on energy development, which is why I have voted for legislation that invests in energy research, develops new energy technology, and stops onerous regulations from the EPA, Department of the Interior, and other federal government agencies.

The federal government needs to be a partner in progress, not a constant barrier to energy development.  We need common sense regulations that protect our national security, public health, and public safety while positively advancing a vibrant and growing private sector economy for America.