Washington, D.C. - The U.S.  House of Representatives today passed a modest Energy Bill which House Democrats concede falls far short of their campaign promise to change America’s future energy policy.
 
The latest version, says U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady, contains some good proposals but does nothing to increase America’s supply of energy and will do little to reduce fuel prices or lessen America’s dependence on foreign oil.
 
“If this bill were a test, I would grade it a C minus,” said Brady whose committee provides tax incentives to encourage exploration within America and the development of new alternative sources of energy. “It could have been worse, though. At least the Senate had the common sense to reject increasing taxes on energy companies exploring here at home, which would have crippled our future supplies.”
 
“While increasing gas mileage on our cars and trucks is a good conservation measure and long overdue, mandating that our fuel meet unrealistic renewable standards will drive up prices at the gas pump and the grocery store”, said Brady. “We need a more balanced approach that grows alternative fuels and new technologies while keeping costs reasonable for families struggling to meet their budgets.”  
 
Brady supports the extension of tax incentives designed by Republicans to encourage the growth of alternative fuels, such as biodiesel, along with wind and solar power.  Unfortunately these provisions were not included in the bill passed by the House today and headed for the President’s desk.
 
Brady also supports greater exploration of America’s own energy resources.   Nearly 85 percent of America’s coast is blocked from energy exploration, as is the energy rich preserve in Alaska set aside specifically for oil and gas production. The federal government has ruled as “off-limits” enough U.S. oil and natural gas to equal eight years of crude oil imports from foreign countries.
 
From his seat on the House Ways & Means Committee, Congressman Brady has fought increased taxes on U.S. energy production and research.