June 7, 2007

House Appropriations Committee Approves Congressman Visclosky’s Bill Addressing High Gas Prices and Air Pollution

Legislation Includes Funding For Energy Research, Including Development of Carbon-Free Biofuels

Congressman Peter Visclosky’s (IN-1) bill to deal with rising gas prices, climate change and other energy concerns in the U.S. received the full support of the House Appropriations Committee on June 6. Visclosky, who serves as chairman of the Energy & Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee, demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to the U.S. goals of reducing its reliance on foreign oil and greenhouse emissions by supporting a bill that funds scientific research that could lead to “greener” fuel for cars.

The subcommittee, which funds the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), voted on May 23 for a significant funding increase in basic research for the DOE’s Office of Science. Total funding for DOE Science is slated at $4.5 billion – a jump of $116 million above President Bush’s fiscal year 2008 budget request.

“With this legislation, we are taking immediate steps to invest in new technologies and develop new sources of energy,” said Visclosky in a prepared statement. “While these energy investments won’t make gas prices drop overnight, they are part of a comprehensive effort to make us less reliant on imported oil and to strengthen our national and economic security.”

Motorists throughout Indiana continue to dig deep into their pockets to pay for gas averaging $3.28 in the state, according to the AAA Daily Fuel Gauge Report. With their votes, members of the subcommittee and full committee took a stand against escalating fuel prices that make it costly to drive to work and the grocery store.

“This generous appropriation will allow the U.S. to regain its footing in the physical sciences and to meet the challenges of climate change, energy security and global competitiveness,” said Michael Lubell, director of public affairs for APS.