ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Today the U.S. House of Representatives approved H.R. 6111, which includes the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (S. 3711). Senate consideration of legislation containing S. 3711 is anticipated by Sunday. The U.S. Senate passed S. 3711 on August 1, 2006 by a bipartisan vote of 71-25. The White House supports passage and enactment of S. 3711.
American Chemistry Council (ACC) President & CEO Jack N. Gerard issued the following statement:
"We are very encouraged by today's House vote that moves the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (S. 3711) forward. Those who supported this legislation clearly recognize the six-year-old natural gas crisis that's been killing jobs, making the United States less competitive and costing the nation's households more for home heating and electricity. These Representatives know that it's imperative for Congress to help bring about affordable, reliable supplies of natural gas to meet Americans' needs -- manufacturers, farmers, businesses and households alike. We thank leaders and key members of the House for their tremendous effort and commitment to the issue.
"Now we are laser-focused on the final, crucial step in the legislative process -- Senate approval of legislation containing S. 3711, sending this vital energy bill to the President's desk. We are counting on the Senate to schedule and approve the bill as an important step toward a more rational energy policy and a signal to manufacturers who must compete in global markets that the U.S. remains 'open for business.' Our industry and our employees are doing all we can to ensure that each and every Senator understands the importance of this vote.
"Senators may be interested to learn that this legislation can aid in the pursuit of cleaner and alternative energy. One of the biggest sources of rising natural gas demand is for generating electricity. More natural gas also will be needed to produce ethanol, hydrogen, ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel, solar panels, wind power blades, and energy-efficient materials such as insulation and plastics for light-weight cars."
The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care(R), common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues, and health and environmental research and product testing. The business of chemistry is a $558 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation's economy. It is one of the nation's largest exporters, accounting for ten cents out of every dollar in U.S. exports. Chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development. Safety and security have always been primary concerns of ACC members, and they have intensified their efforts, working closely with government agencies to improve security and to defend against any threat to the nation's critical infrastructure.
American Chemistry Council
