[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 154 (Friday, September 26, 2008)]
[House]
[Page H9978]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            STRONG ENERGY STRATEGY MEANS A STRONGER ECONOMY

  (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, this week the House of 
Representatives voted to lift the ban on offshore deepwater drilling. 
This was a strong first step towards more American energy, but it was 
only a first step. Lifting this ban should not divert our attention 
away from working on an all-of-the-above energy strategy. Our Nation's 
short-term and long-term energy needs require a comprehensive approach 
which includes conservation and the development of alternative 
resources.
  At a time of economic uncertainty, a realistic and innovative energy 
strategy would be a powerful boost not only to the advancement of new 
technology but also of economic opportunity. Additionally, any efforts 
we can make to relieve the pain at the pump and reduce electricity 
bills for American families would be in itself a positive incentive to 
grow American small businesses and commerce.
  Our Nation faces many challenges, but we do not lack the ability, the 
resources, or the resolve to address them.
  In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget 
September 11th.

                          ____________________