U.S. Chamber and More Than 1000 Business & Labor Groups Urge Senate to Pass Broad Energy Plan

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The United States Chamber of Commerce today joined more than 1000 business and labor groups to urge swift Senate action now to create a national energy plan that reduces U.S. dependence on foreign energy, creates jobs, relies on the latest technologies, and protects the environment.

"Lack of foresight on energy has made us vulnerable economically and weakened our national security," said Bruce Josten, Chamber executive vice president. "More than 1000 business and labor groups urging Senate action shows the power behind the need for a comprehensive plan to secure our energy future."

The National Energy Security Policy Act of 2001, introduced by Sen. Frank Murkowski (R-AK) and supported by the Chamber, contains provisions that decrease the nation's reliance on foreign oil by encouraging more domestic energy development, conservation and the use of new technologies. Specifically, it expands the use of renewable energy sources, including nuclear, hydro, biomass, solar and wind energy resources.

"This legislation will ensure a reliable, affordable domestic supply to meet our future needs," said Josten. "We must not let politics and stalling tactics stand in the way of greatly needed upgrades to our domestic energy system and security."

The Chamber today joined a broad group from the Alliance for Energy and Economic Growth, including Terry Turner, Seafarers International Union; Bob Powers, Building and Construction Trades Union; Harry Alford, National Black Chamber of Commerce; Jon Doggett, American Farm Bureau Federation; and Karen Kerrigan, Small Business Survival Committee to urge Senate action.

The Chamber has led the fight for a national energy plan and co-chairs the Alliance for Energy and Economic Growth – a broad-based coalition of more than 1000 small and large businesses, labor unions, and energy suppliers urging Congress to pass such a plan.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation, representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

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