News: Media Center

WASHINGTON (July 28, 2005) -- The House of Representatives passed the energy bill by a vote of 275-156 earlier today, and Senate passage is imminent. The following is a statement by Karen Wayland, legislative director for the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):

"Some things get better with age. Not so with this energy bill. Five years in the making, yet it still fails to address our country's most pressing energy needs.

"Growing oil dependence. Soaring gas prices. Destructive energy development. Huge subsidies for polluters. Global warming. Not one of these problems is seriously addressed in the energy bill.

"Because Congress blew it, we'll remain dependent on oil and we'll keep paying high prices at the pump.

"Even though 'comprehensive' energy legislation only happens every ten years or so, our nation can't wait another decade before Congress decides to get serious about addressing the issues sidestepped by this industry boondoggle of a bill.

"If our elected leaders were serious about securing America's energy future, they'd realize that the future is now. When Congress returns from its month-long recess, lawmakers immediately should get back to work.

"Give Americans what we need, namely policies that will actually save oil, making us safer and saving us money. Set a bold new energy agenda and watch America respond by leading the world in solving our toughest energy challenges."

The Natural Resources Defense Council is a national, nonprofit organization of scientists, lawyers and environmental specialists dedicated to protecting public health and the environment. Founded in 1970, NRDC has more than 1 million members and online activists nationwide, served from offices in New York, Washington, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

RELATED NRDC PAGES
NRDC Fact Sheets Analyzing the Energy Bill

PRESS RELEASES
July 26, 2005, Energy Bill a 'Waste of Energy', Says NRDC
July 19, 2005, Congress Rejects Oil Savings in Energy Bill...Again
June 23, 2005, Senate Energy Bill Expected to Pass; Fails Energy Security Test
June 21, 2005, Senate Energy Bill Retains Provision Allowing Offshore Seismic Exploration
June 14, 2005, Coming Soon to America's Coasts: More Drilling?
June 9, 2005, Energy Bill: Haste Makes a Wasted Opportunity