Energy Bill is a Good First Step; NCPA E-Team Scholars Say Plan is Much Improved From Earlier Versions
Apr 18 - U.S. Newswire
The bipartisan energy bill passed by the House Energy and Commerce Committee should reduce U.S. dependence on foreign sources of energy, according to scholars with the National Center for Policy Analysis' (NCPA) E-Team project.
The bill also could reduce fuel prices over time by improving America's
energy infrastructure, according to Dr. Burnett, laying the foundation for
economic growth by reducing the chance for future supply disruptions by:
-- Streamlining the permit process to increase refining capacity and capping
the number of regional "boutique" fuels.
-- Permitting and expediting new oil and gas exploration and development on
public lands.
-- Streamlining the process for re-licensing and developing new nuclear and
hydropower production.
-- Providing incentives for expanding the nation's electricity grid, which
should reduce the chance of black-outs.
Reports say the bill should easily pass the House, but may face opposition in
the Senate because it includes a waiver against MTBE liability lawsuits. MTBE is
a gasoline additive of a type required by Congress nearly two decades ago.
"MTBE alone should not kill this bill," Dr. Burnett added. "It
includes too many other critical needs, like expanded oil and gas exploration,
energy infrastructure improvements and reduced regulation."
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