Wittman: Virginia Needs Energy Exploration

WASHINGTON – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today in response to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management's decision not to allow oil drilling in the Atlantic Ocean:

"This decision suggests a blatant disregard for the energy and economic realities this country is facing. By refusing to allow drilling, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management is shutting down opportunity for people across the Commonwealth and compromising our energy and national security. In Virginia, this Administration's dedication to extremist environmental policies means that the state will forego thousands of well-paying jobs and millions of dollars in revenue.

"As a scientist, I have dedicated the better part of my life to protecting marine wildlife and ecosystems, and I of course believe that advanced safety measures should be applied to any energy extraction. I couldn't support drilling without them. But we cannot continue to ignore the fact that fossil fuels are and will remain our dominant source of energy. Our people and our economy rely significantly on fossil fuels, and we must continue to encourage responsible exploration and development of our domestic supplies to satisfy that need."

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the 1st District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee, where he is Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee.

# # #