McDonnell, Goodlatte tout offshore energy development

Gov. Bob McDonnell used a Thursday photo op to bring attention to his continued push for offshore drilling off the coast of Virginia.

“America has an energy policy problem. Today, Virginia businesses and families are paying, on average, $3.88 per gallon for gasoline. That’s up $1.00 from a year ago. The Energy Information Administration estimates that gasoline will cost the average U.S. household $1,210 more this year than in 2009. That is money that could be spent by families on education, groceries and vacations. Instead it is money being spent at the pump,” McDonnell said.

McDonnell talked up a letter that he sent to President Barack Obama last month highlighting his recommended course of action on dealing with high gas prices.

“By allowing for offshore energy exploration in the Gulf of Mexico, and requiring the lease sale off the Atlantic Coast to move forward, we will be well on our way to restarting offshore energy production which will create jobs, lower energy costs, and generate revenue to help pay down the national debt,” McDonnell said.

McDonnell also touted legislation introduced by Congressman Bob Goodlatte that would open up the coast of Virginia to offshore drilling.

“Virginians understand that a major component in lessening energy costs is to produce more energy,” Goodlatte said. “I believe that Virginia should have every tool available to access its energy supplies. That is why legislation like the one the Congress is considering today, that would provide for access to Virginia’s energy supplies as well as legislation that I have introduced that would provide for revenue sharing with the Commonwealth for its energy resources are vital to the Commonwealth of Virginia. In addition to helping us become energy independent, access to these resources will help create thousands of jobs for Virginians and infuse the Commonwealth with new capital growth.”