Manufacturers disappointed with House energy legislation

Source: Energy Digital

Date :6/15/2007 10:17:51 AM

National Association of Manufacturers’ president warns that the “one step forward, two steps back” approach on important sections of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, will hurt consumers.

Responding to a bill moving through Congress which would roll back important sections of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct) and undermine the nation’s energy security, National Association of Manufacturers’ President John Engler expresses “deep disappointment” that lawmakers would backslide on thoughtful energy policies, and effectively take “one step forward, two steps back.”

“The nation’s energy security looks a lot more challenging today,” Engler continues. “Legislation that shuts off domestic supplies only leaves the nation more vulnerable to price fluctuations and the machinations of foreign countries. Instead of allowing the EPAct’s provisions to actually work, lawmakers have willfully decided to punish the nation's consumers. There is no justification for this legislation and the havoc it will wreak on our energy future.”

Currently, the U.S. imports 61 percent of its crude oil needs and 15 percent of its natural gas.

“Legislation that restricts our domestic energy supply is dangerous policy – it’s bad for business and should be defeated,” Engler continues.

Despite today’s disappointing outcome, the NAM applauded the bi-partisan support for more forward thinking energy policies, as illustrated by votes cast against the legislation.

The bill, HR 2337, passed by a 26-22 vote will move on to the House floor in the coming weeks. “As this bill is taken up by the full House, we certainly hope that common-sense will prevail and this hopelessly flawed bill will be amended to truly reflect our energy needs,” Engler says. “The NAM will continue to fight for American consumers, both industrial and individual.”