AJC: Energy Bill with Strong CAFE Standards Essential
August 2, 2007 - Washington - The American Jewish Committee today urged the House of Representatives to pass the New Direction for Energy Independence, National Security and Consumer Protection Act (H.R.32200. Robust CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) standards must be an essential part of any comprehensive energy bill enacted by Congress, AJC said.
"This legislation will put the United States on a more sustainable energy path, one that is essential both to our nation's security and our environmental health," said Richard Foltin, AJC's legislative director.
"At the same time, we cannot overstate the importance of moving toward tougher fuel economy standards," said Foltin. "We are deeply concerned that the opportunity not be missed to strengthen CAFE standards, a crucial component of a multifaceted approach to ending our dependence on foreign oil and securing America's energy future."
AJC has been a leading advocate for the development of energy policies that will reduce the United States' dependence on foreign energy sources and protect the environment. AJC has also been a long-time supporter of strengthened CAFE standards and other bold measures to ensure energy security. Unfortunately, the bill that will be considered by the House does not provide for strengthening of CAFE standards.
"We urge the leadership of both parties to ensure that that a strong 35 mile-per-gallon standard - comparable to that in the energy bill passed by the Senate - be included in the Senate-House conference report," said Foltin.
Ari M. Gordon Assistant Director Department of Interreligious Affairs American Jewish Committee 165 E56th St. New York, NY 10022 (212) 891-6768 (212) 751-4000 x266 www.ajc.org www.engagingamerica.org