Garrett on the Energy Bill

The Record reported what Representative Scott Garrett said about his being the only Representative from New Jersey to vote against the New Direction for Energy Independence, National Security, and Consumer Protection Act:

"I believe it's important to increase our nation's energy availability and address our concerns for high gas prices and dependence on foreign oil," he said. "Last week's energy bill presented on the House floor did nothing to ensure that, so I voted against it."

It's important to note, Garrett did not offer a single amendment to deal with what he perceived as the bill's shortfalls. The bill was considered under an open rule and several Republicans who voted against the bill as a whole did offer really good amendments. One example is Representative Lee Terry of Nebraska, whose amendment was to accelerate the use of geothermal heat for government buildings.

I'm not sure what part of expanding the availability of alternative energy sources does not register with Garrett as increased energy availability. Unfortunately, what I am sure of is Garrett is the only Representative from New Jersey to support drilling off the Jersey Shore.

Fortunately, the rest of our State's delegation understood the important steps this bill takes toward energy independence.