Over the past several decades the United States has increased it dependence on foreign oil to the point that we currently import nearly 60% of our petroleum. What is even more staggering is that the US is expected to be importing up to 75% of is oil by the year 2010. I believe that this dependence on imports largely coming from the Middle East and politically unstable countries, such as Nigeria and Venezuela, is a threat to our national security. America must become self-sufficient in its energy needs due to an increasingly unpredictable global market.

As a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I have overseen legislation that provides incentives for the use of domestic fuel sources, such as natural gas, as well as supporting the development of nontraditional renewable energies. I have also supported the expansion of the Energy Star program, which promotes efficiency in household appliances, and I have encouraged automakers to further develop hybrid technologies.

In response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, where many Americans saw gasoline prices between $3.00 and $4.00 a gallon, my colleagues and I passed the GAS Act, which streamlined, but not eliminated, the permitting process for new refineries. This act provides companies the opportunity to gain approval for new refineries more quickly, while still maintaining compliance with stringent standards and regulations.

Also a matter of personal pride for me is that Texas Congressional District 26 has the first renewable-energy powered biodiesel manufacturing facility in the world. Located in the City of Denton Landfill, the facility has the capacity to manufacture three million gallons of pure biodiesel a year, and is powered by natural methane gas which is harvested from the adjacent City Landfill. The residents of Denton have proven to be innovators in the energy industry, and the City of Denton has demonstrated dedication to cleaning up the environment.