    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2001, Book II)]
    [July 17, 2001]
    [Page 860]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 860]]

    Statement on House of Representatives Action on National Energy Policy
    Legislation
    July 17, 2001

        Today's actions in the House Resources Committee and in the House
    Energy and Commerce Committee represent important steps toward
    implementing a comprehensive and balanced energy policy. I am pleased
    that the committees are acting swiftly to increase energy efficiency,
    expand use of renewables, and open a small portion of the Arctic
    National Wildlife Refuge for environmentally responsible exploration.
        For too long America has lacked a comprehensive national energy
    policy. My administration has proposed a plan that will reduce America's
    reliance on foreign oil through increased conservation and efficiency,
    improved infrastructure, and increased exploration. I commend the House
    committees for moving forward on these goals.