Hoyer Introduces Comprehensive Energy Legislation

Hoyer Introduces Comprehensive Energy Legislation

Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-Mechanicsville) today introduced the Program for Real Energy Security (PROGRESS) Act, a comprehensive energy bill to initiate a concentrated national effort toward developing alternative energy sources. "Researching alternative fuels and vehicles should be a national priority," Hoyer said. "Achieving energy independence will increase our security, bolster our economy, and ensure a clean, healthy environment."

Part of this effort will be the New Manhattan Center for High Efficiency Vehicles, which will devote resources to expand current research on hydrogen and fuel cells to include other vehicle programs, such as battery, alternative diesel, variable compression engines, and electric hybrids.

"Investing in the research and development of more efficient vehicles will allow them to be priced more competitively, thereby accelerating a realistic transition to alternative fuels," Hoyer said.

The PROGRESS Act establishes a National Energy Security Commission and a National Biofuels Infrastructure Development Program. It also promotes transit use and the development of a rail infrastructure program, and mandates that the federal government take a leading role in using oil alternatives.

"A dedicated national effort is necessary to overcome our energy challenges," Hoyer said. "With gas prices skyrocketing and the Middle East in turmoil, it is past due time for America to reduce its dependence on foreign oil and become more energy efficient."

http://hoyerforcongress.com/releases/?ReleaseID=17