Rep. Valentine offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 442.
A resolution to memorialize the Congress of the United States to enact a comprehensive energy plan to move our country to independence from foreign oil.
Whereas, With the dramatic rise in oil costs that are rippling through the nation's economy, it is increasingly clear that the approaches to energy we have taken in the past are inadequate. A new course to energy independence must be charted, with a comprehensive approach that includes a notable commitment to renewable and alternative fuels. Our plans also must incorporate expanded domestic production and widespread energy efficiency initiatives as well; and
Whereas, Because our energy challenges will necessitate both long-term and short-term strategies, traditional energy production methods will clearly be important. Expanded domestic drilling, when carried out to meet the most responsible environmental standards, is a most appropriate avenue to pursue. Our own resources of oil and gas in Michigan can contribute to this effort, as long as exploration and production fully protect our environment, especially our waters, and as long as no drilling is permitted within or beneath the Great Lakes; and
Whereas, The recent hurricane damage in the Gulf of Mexico serves to illustrate the wisdom of our nation pursuing a comprehensive approach to gaining energy independence. We cannot follow a path that does not incorporate a commitment to alternative energy, renewable energy, environmentally sound practices, energy efficiency, and expanded domestic production; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we memorialize the Congress of the United States to enact a comprehensive energy plan to move our country to independence from foreign oil; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.