    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book I)]
    [April 25, 2002]
    [Pages 669-670]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Action on National Energy Policy Legislation
    April 25, 2002

        The Senate today passed legislation that includes many of the
    provisions called for in my administration's national energy policy.
    Together, the House and Senate energy bills include the major
    conservation and environmentally responsible production measures needed
    to reduce our reliance on foreign sources of energy.
        I am pleased that the House-Senate conference committee will have
    before it the elements of a comprehensive energy policy. The two bills
    reflect my administration's call to provide tax incentives for
    alternative and renewable fuels and technology; modernize our
    electricity laws; open a small portion of ANWR to responsible
    exploration; increase automotive fuel efficiency while protecting
    American lives and jobs; and ensure continued safe operation of our
    nuclear facilities.
        It is imperative that America increase its energy independence, and
    I look forward to working with the conferees to ensure that we enact a
    balanced and comprehensive energy policy this year.

    Note: The statement referred to ANWR, the Arctic National Wildlife
    Refuge.

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