Boehner: With Passage of Chesapeake Bay Bill, Democrats Let Another Week Pass Without Scheduling Legislation to Bring Down Gas Prices

Congressman John Boehner
June 5, 2008

Congressman John Boehner (R-West Chester) issued the following statement as House Democrats scheduled for floor action the Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Watertrails Network Continuing Authorization Act (H.R. 5540) but failed to schedule a single vote this week on legislation to help lower the price of gasoline, which has soared to $3.99 per gallon today:

Another week has come and gone without the Democratic Congress scheduling legislation to help bring down the price of gasoline and move America closer to energy independence. And all the while, fuel costs have soared higher than ever, placing more Americans summer travel plans in doubt. Todays consideration of legislation related to the Chesapeake Bay is particularly ironic because the Bay is typically a summertime destination for many American families. Making the trip to Chesapeake Bay is more difficult this year because of the pain Americans are feeling every time they fill up their gas tanks. Likewise, those who live and work along the Bay are struggling to make ends meet as they deal with soaring costs of gasoline and diesel, both of which are critical to the regions economy.

When Democrats took control of Congress, gas prices averaged $2.33 per gallon. Those same prices have surged $1.66 per gallon in just 16 months. With the economy sputtering and costs of living rising, the American people simply cant afford a 10-cent increase in gas prices every month, but that is just what this Democratic Majority has delivered. Republicans are prepared to lead where Democrats have failed and that starts with meaningful action to lower gas prices. Thats why House Republicans have unveiled a comprehensive plan to help reduce energy costs by harnessing new technologies and unlocking Americas natural energy resources in an environmentally-responsible way. If Democrats can find the time to schedule narrow legislation on the Chesapeake Bay, certainly they can find the time to schedule a vote on an energy plan to lower gas prices in the Bay region and across the country.

NOTE: Click here to read about the House Republican plan to help lower gas prices and give America the energy independence we deserve.

Boehner represents Ohios 8th District, which includes all of Darke, Miami and Preble counties, most of Butler and Mercer counties, and the northeastern corner of Montgomery County. He was first elected to Congress in 1990.