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Press Room

July 31, 2001

Ferguson Votes For Energy Conservation, Protection For Arctic Wildlife Refuge

Freshman also supports increase automobile fuel efficiency standards

WASHINGTON - Freshman Rep. Mike Ferguson, R-N.J., voted Wednesday evening for a comprehensive conservation energy plan and supported several environmental protections, including a ban on drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and an increase in fuel efficiency standards for automobiles and sports utilities vehicles.

"This national energy policy will help to promote efficient and renewable energy and conservation," Ferguson said. "While more needs to be done to conserve our energy resources, this energy plan is a step in the right direction."

The "Securing America's Future Energy Act," H.R. 4, passed on a bipartisan 240-189 vote. The bill, which outlines America's national energy policy, will now move to the Senate for consideration.

Despite Ferguson's strong support, several environmental amendments were defeated. Among these amendments were a complete ban on oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in Alaska and an increase in the mile-per-gallon fuel economy standards (CAFE) for all cars and sport utility vehicles. Ferguson voted to ban drilling in ANWR and voted to support increased CAFE standards.

The energy policy measure passed by the House:

Promotes Energy Conservation

  • Requires higher fuel economy standards for cars and SUVs, saving more than five billion gallons of gasoline.
  • Incentives for new and cleaner renewable energy sources, including hydroelectric, wind-generated power and alternative fuel resources.
  • Encourages individuals and businesses to purchase hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles and expands incentives to purchase electric vehicles and gas-electric hybrid cars.

    Reduces America's Reliance on Foreign Oil: Encourages greater domestic energy production and refinement to reduce fuel costs to American consumers.

    Modernizes U.S. Energy Infrastructure: Helps to update the U.S. energy infrastructure, including pipelines and electric grids.

    Reduces the Government Energy Use: Requires the federal government to lead by example on energy conservation by setting stricter standards for energy use in federal buildings.

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