[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 101 (Thursday, June 21, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1374-E1375]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 
                                  2008

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. KATHY CASTOR

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 20, 2007

       The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of 
     the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 2641) making 
     appropriations for energy and water development and related 
     agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, and 
     for other purposes:

  Ms. CASTOR. Mr. Chairman, the Energy and Water Appropriations bill 
charts an important new direction for improved public health and a 
cleaner environment throughout America. The bill also makes important 
new investments in renewable energy as we must reduce our dependence on 
foreign oil and cut

[[Page E1375]]

greenhouse gas emissions. We must rapidly expand the production of 
clean, alternative fuels and increase energy efficiency. Our country 
has lost momentum due to the Bush-Cheney White House's inaction on 
global warming and energy independence. The new Congress will change 
course today.
  A healthy and clean environment and renewable energy solutions are 
vital to the State of Florida and the Tampa Bay area. In my Tampa Bay 
area district, we are working to increase energy efficiency through 
organizations like the Clean Energy Research Center at the University 
of South Florida. My recent Tampa energy forum ``Turning Green for the 
Red, White and Blue'' drew great community interest. Our neighbors now 
are focusing on commonsense conservation initiatives. Nevertheless, 
leadership at the Federal level is vital.
  The Energy and Water Appropriations bill invests $3 billion in global 
climate change science and in renewable energy technologies that both 
reduce greenhouse gases and help our Nation meet its energy needs. 
Additionally, this bill will provide a 50 percent increase into 
research on energy efficiency and renewable energy, including solar, 
biofuels, hydropower, and geothermal, as well as new vehicle technology 
and energy efficient buildings and homes. Solar energy holds great 
promise for Floridians and I strongly support the new investment of 
$200 million for research, development and demonstration projects to 
make solar energy more affordable.
  On the first day of the new Congress, the House passed legislation to 
repeal $14 billion in taxpayer subsidies given to Big Oil companies 
that are earning record profits while we pay record profits at the 
pump. Those monies now will be channeled into clean alternative energy 
technologies and energy efficiency. Doing so enhances our national 
security as our country will lessen its foreign entanglements with 
questionable, petrocentric nations.
  Climate change is potentially the greatest threat to our national 
security and prosperity. Energy independence is vital to our future. I 
urge the Congress to act swiftly for the sake of my community and all 
Americans.

                          ____________________