Capito Votes Against CLEAR Act, Calling It A Job-Killing Tax On American Energy

Statement

Today, Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito, R. W. Va, voted against H.R. 3534, the CLEAR Act, introduced by fellow West Virginian Nick Rahall. Capito argues that the bill will destroy jobs while perpetuating America's dependence on foreign oil.

"Americans are rightly saddened and frustrated by the tragic Gulf oil spill. While we must thoroughly investigate the cause of the spill and take necessary measures to remove the oil as quickly as possible, we cannot use this disaster as an excuse to levy a tax on Americans while cutting off an important energy source," stated Capito.

The legislation puts the 9.2 million jobs supported by American oil and natural gas industries at risk by raising taxes, blocking American energy development and continuing a de facto moratorium on deepwater drilling. The CLEAR Act would also enact a $22 billion tax over 10 years on domestic energy sources at a time when energy prices are already rising.

"When energy prices go up, every sector of the economy is affected. Now is not the time to pass a bill that will make it more expensive for Americans to do everything from buying groceries to taking a summer road trip," concluded Capito.

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