WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Robert Hurt (R-Virginia) today delivered the below floor speech in support of the Offshore Energy And Jobs Act, a bill that will lead to the creation of thousands of jobs in Virginia and lower energy prices for all Americans:
[View Robert's Remarks By Clicking Above Or HERE]
Floor Speech Text
"Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the Offshore Energy And Jobs Act – a bill that will create thousands of new jobs in Virginia while lowering the cost of energy for all Americans.
"Last month, I traveled throughout my district visiting local communities to discuss the impact of high energy prices. At each stop, the same message rang clear: the cost of energy continues to have a significant negative impact on our small businesses, our farmers, and our families. Not only do we see higher prices at the gas pump, but high fuel prices have triggered higher prices across the board. People are paying more for groceries and are witnessing their utility costs rise at a time when they can least afford it.
"There is no question that Americans continue to suffer from Washington's failure to adopt a sensible energy policy.
"The President has consistently failed to lead on this issue. The Administration continues to restrict leasing permits for oil and gas exploration off of the coast of the Commonwealth – preventing Virginia from utilizing our natural resources. Reopening the lease sales off our coast enjoys broad, bipartisan support in Virginia, yet Washington continues to insist that it knows what is best for the Commonwealth.
"At a time when too many people in my district and across the country are out of work, it is critical that we in the House do everything we can to encourage the creation of new jobs and reduce the burden on our hardworking families, our farmers, and our small businesses.
"If adopted, this Act will lead to the creation of over a million new American jobs. In addition, this legislation will lead to lower energy prices, economic growth, and strengthened national security.
"As the House continues to lead on creating a sensible domestic energy policy, it is my hope that the Senate and the President will join us.
"I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense legislation and I thank Chairman Hastings for his leadership and his committee for its leadership on this important issue. I yield back the balance of my time."
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