MonticelloLive

U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln today called for a comprehensive plan to lessen our country’s dependence on foreign oil and bring relief to consumers. 
 
“Our dependence on foreign oil is not a sustainable strategy and has caused hardship for America’s working families, particularly those living in rural America,” Lincoln said.  “Solving America’s energy crisis will require a comprehensive solution that includes several components: first and foremost, conservation technologies, which will bring the most immediate relief to consumers; alternative energy sources, which will have an impact now and be a sustainable strategy for the future; and more responsible drilling that makes the best use of the resources at our disposal. 
 
“Our federal government is responsible for leading this country into a new-energy economy.  However, it will be America’s businesses that carry out this crucial transition, and they need a predictable environment in which to invest and make changes.  There’s no time to waste.” 
 
Lincoln is an original member of the bipartisan “New ERA” group—initially called the “Gang of 10,” but growing in number—that formed in June to jumpstart the congressional debate on energy.  In a June 26 letter to Senate leaders, Lincoln and the original members called for a summit with energy experts to discuss the best approaches to the growing crisis.  Lincoln attended today’s Senate-wide summit, scheduled as a result of the group’s urging. 
 
Lincoln said the New ERA group’s legislation—The New Energy Reform Act of 2008—could be introduced on the Senate floor as early as next week.  The group unveiled their initial broad-based proposal on August 1.  The comprehensive approach calls for a focused effort to transition the nation’s motor vehicle fleets to fuels other than gasoline and diesel. To ease gas prices in the interim, the proposal includes significant conservation provisions, consumer tax credits, and responsible measures to increase domestic production of oil through responsible drilling.