Statement of Senator Barack Obama on Senate Bills to Cut Energy Costs

June 10, 2008 -- WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Barack Obama today released the following statement following the Senate's votes on the Consumer First Energy Act (S. 3044) and the Renewable Energy and Job Creation Act (H.R. 6049). Both measures were blocked today.

Wind turbine: Photo by Vik Walker (CC)

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"Today, Senate Republicans turned a blind eye to the plight of America's working families and our nation's worsening dependence on foreign oil. At a time when Americans are struggling with skyrocketing energy prices, including paying over $4.00 a gallon for gasoline, Senate Republicans blocked debate on important legislation that would have provided tax relief for low-income families and spurred on investments in job-creating research and development and alternative energy.

"Senate Republicans also refused to extend critical investments in renewable energy, such as solar, wind, and cellulosic ethanol. I am particularly disappointed that the tax credit for the installation of biofuels pumps at gas stations, a provision I helped enact in 2005, is among the provisions that were blocked.

"These proposals alone would not have solved our serious energy problems, but they would have provided American families with some much-needed relief from record high gas prices. They also would have put America on track to having real alternatives to foreign oil and helped make our economy less vulnerable. We must stand with American families and not with those that are taking advantage of them, and I am committed to working with my colleagues to pass these important measures."

Source: Senator Barack Obama