Washington, D.C. – Congressman Frank Lucas today praised passage of H.R. 2231, the Offshore Energy and Jobs Act. The legislation passed the United States House of Representatives with a 235 to 186 vote.

“I am pleased this legislation passed the House today,” said Lucas. “I have always been a supporter of an all-of-the-above energy approach, and the Offshore Energy and Jobs Act helps us accomplish this goal by creating energy independence and boosting job creation across the nation.

“President Obama has used one stall tactic after another to delay offshore drilling, and today we are saying it is time to take advantage of our country’s resources. This legislation increases domestic energy supplies by removing barriers that have blocked offshore energy exploration, and it will require the Administration to move forward with tapping into our natural resources.

“Additionally, H.R. 2231 will provide a tremendous boost to the American economy by producing millions of dollars in revenue and potentially creating 1.2 million long-term jobs and 250,000 short-term jobs. The legislation will also decrease energy costs for American families. At a time when our unemployment rate remains high, it is important that we take advantage of opportunities to add jobs and ease the burden on American citizens.

“I will continue to work with my colleagues to produce cost saving, pro-economic energy solutions. It is my hope that the Offshore Energy and Jobs Act will be passed in the Senate and sent to President Obama for his signature. Now is the time to begin expanding American-made energy options.”

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