Congressman Cantor Calls for Restarting Offshore Leasing in Virginia

Press Release

Congressman Eric Cantor (VA-07) today issued the following statement on the passage of H.R. 1230, "Restarting American Offshore Leasing Now Act," which would require the Administration to move forward with Virginia's Lease Sale 220 and other lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico that the Obama Administration has delayed or canceled:

"Gas prices continue to skyrocket over $4 dollars a gallon nationwide, placing increased strain on already tight budgets for families and business people. In response to the Obama Administration's aggressive fight against domestic energy production, House Republicans have taken another important step to encourage economic growth, create jobs and lower gas prices -- especially right here at home in the Commonwealth. The current regulatory blockade on domestic drilling for oil and gas has stifled energy development and eliminated plans to tap Virginia's offshore energy resources. This bill will allow us to move forward with the offshore lease sales in Virginia and the Gulf of Mexico in a safe and responsible way that will utilize American technology, innovation and create jobs.

"Virginia has vast potential to move our nation towards the goal of achieving energy independence. Offshore energy exploration and development in the Commonwealth will help put Virginians back to work, generate millions of dollars in revenue, produce enough oil and natural gas to fuel our cars and heat our homes, and reduce our dependence on foreign oil so that gas prices are lower for families and businesses."

Source