I am presently reviewing the President s 170-page comprehensive plan to address the energy needs of our nation, stated Gilman. In recent briefings I have received from Vice President Cheney and his White House staff, I have reserved optimism that this plan provides a strong foundation to address our nation s energy needs. The President's plan contains 105 specific proposals, including recommendations to help modernize and increase conservation, protect our environment and assist our communities, diversify our supply of clean, affordable energy, modernize our antiquated infrastructure, strengthen US global alliances, and enhancing national energy security. Twelve of the recommendations can be implemented by Executive Order, seventy-three are directives to federal agencies, and twenty are recommendations for action by Congress.
Energy supply is a problem.
However, in our efforts to relieve dependence on a foreign supply and to address our national needs, we must not lose sight of the importance of alternative sources, energy conservation, and protection of our environment, Rep. Gilman stated. It is gratifying that President Bush has made this vital issue a priority of his administration, and I look forward to working with him and my Congressional colleagues to modernize and expand our nation s energy infrastructure, increase conservation, diversify energy supplies, and strengthen America s energy security, Gilman concluded. Energy is an issue that not only affects all of our citizens and businesses, but is critical to the national security of our nation. The President s leadership and foresight on this issue is necessary for our nation to grow and succeed in the years to come. Hear Congressman Gilman's comments on the President's energy plan.