Congressman Robert Hurt (R-Virginia) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 4899, the Lowering Gasoline Prices to Fuel an America that Works Act of 2014, which expands onshore energy production, streamlines permitting processes and reduces unnecessary red tape.
“As I travel throughout the Fifth District, I regularly hear from my constituents that today’s high energy costs are bearing a significant burden on our main street businesses, our farmers, and our families. Not only are Central and Southside Virginians suffering from high prices at the pump, but high fuel prices have caused higher costs across the board, making it increasingly more difficult for families and small businesses to achieve financial stability.
“H.R. 4899 represents a significant milestone in our goal to achieve energy independence by streamlining government regulations that hamper American energy production and job creation. This legislation also represents a central piece of our ‘all of the above’ energy strategy that includes increased oil and gas production, including off of Virginia’s coast, the use of alternative energies, as well as conservation. These proposals have had support on both sides of the aisle over the years, and I hope our senators will help us advance these policies and the opportunity for thousands of new jobs in Virginia.
“I was proud to support this legislation that encourages the creation of new jobs and lightens the burden on our hardworking families and small businesses. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to create a sensible and robust domestic energy policy.”