ANWR Key to More Energy and Jobs

ANWR Key to More Energy and Jobs
STRAIGHT TALK WITH SAM

Volume 5, Issue 40, October 3, 2005

My top priority in Congress has always been to help create good jobs. If we can also put Americans to work helping reduce our dependence on foreign oil then so much the better.

The Alaska National Wildlife Refuge offers the best hope for increasing the domestic supply of oil. It is an area that is roughly the size of South Carolina. New technology means that we could explore the entire region while leaving a footprint the size of Kansas City International Airport. The reserves in ANWR could increase the domestic supply of oil by as much as 20%.

As world demand of oil increases, the price of gas will only continue to increase. We need to develop American sources of energy to keep our own economy moving. Depending on foreign sources of oil for our energy needs is not only dangerous, it's expensive.

In addition, new American jobs would be created by exploring ANWR. One forecasting company estimates that 736,000 jobs would result from opening ANWR to exploration. Manufacturing, mining, construction, finance and insurance are just some of the services that would see growth.

It is not just Alaska that would benefit. $22.5 billion was spent during the construction of Alaska's existing North Slope fields. 78% of that money was spent outside of Alaska on salaries, materials, design and engineering.

We need to create more jobs and decrease our dependence on foreign sources of oil. If we can accomplish both those goals at once, it would be a win-win for all of us.

http://www.house.gov/graves/straighttalk/2005issue40.htm