Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Isakson Votes To Increase Domestic Oil Production
Was Also A Cosponsor of 'The Offshore Production and Safety Act of 2011'

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., today voted to increase domestic oil production in an attempt to lower gas prices for Georgians and all Americans.

Isakson cosponsored and voted for a motion to proceed to S.953, The Offshore Production and Safety Act of 2011. The motion to proceed, which required 60 votes to pass, failed by a vote of 42-57.

On Tuesday, May 17, 2011, Isakson joined a majority of his colleagues in rejecting the Democrats' energy bill that would have increased taxes on domestic oil producers. The motion to proceed to the Democrats' bill, S.930, also failed to get 60 votes on Tuesday.

"America's families are struggling as the price at the gas pump continues to rise," said Isakson. "Instead of raising taxes on U.S. companies that provide jobs, we should focus on developing America's energy resources to lessen our dependence on foreign oil, stimulate the U.S. economy and bring much-needed relief at the gas pump."

The Offshore Production and Safety Act of 2011, was introduced by Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., as an alternative to the Democrats' recent proposal to increase taxes on domestic oil producers. Among other things, McConnell's energy bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct previously scheduled offshore lease sales in the Western and Central Gulf of Mexico, Virginia, and Alaska. It also extends lease terms by one year for Gulf leases that were suspended under the 2010 Obama moratorium.