Deepwater Horizon Incident

June 17, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with those who are being impacted by the Deepwater Horizon incident.  We need to take appropriate steps to ensure this unfortunate incident does not jeopardize the future of energy security in America. Even with major developments expected in renewable energy, the government estimates that renewable fuels will supply about 14 percent of the nation’s energy needs by 2035.  Oil and natural gas will provide more than a third of our nation’s energy usage and 85 percent of our transportation needs.

We can buy the oil we need from other countries, or we can lessen our dependence on foreign sources and grow our economy at the same time.  The oil and natural gas industry currently supports 9.2 million good-paying jobs and generates $1.3 trillion - $1.7 trillion in government revenue. 

This is a difficult time in the lives of many Americans across the country, and especially for those in the Gulf Coast states.  However, it is imperative that our leaders make sound decisions that support the long-term development of all forms of energy, including oil and natural gas.

We will make every effort to keep you updated as new developments occur.

Maurice Taylor
State Chairman