[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 135 (Wednesday, September 23, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2341]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  OPEN UP THE OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF

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                           HON. ADRIAN SMITH

                              of nebraska

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 23, 2009

  Mr. SMITH of Nebrska. Madam Speaker, investing in American energy 
resources will create jobs, stimulate our economy, and end our 
dependence on foreign oil.
  Last year, Congress and President Bush announced an end to a decades-
long ban on energy exploration off America's coasts.
  Instead of moving forward with a plan to explore the Outer 
Continental Shelf, this administration has stopped progress by 
instituting an extended six-month public comment period.
  Now, Secretary Salazar has indicated offshore exploration may not 
happen until 2012--meaning a six month delay could become a three-year 
ban.
  Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to tour parts of the OCS and 
observe offshore oil and gas production.
  Madam Speaker, I saw firsthand the need to take an all-of-the-above 
approach when it comes to our energy portfolio--an approach which 
includes developing American offshore energy resources.
  Remember, putting roadblocks up to stunt energy production now will 
only mean higher energy prices in the future.

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