The EPA is attempting to circumvent Congress and issue its own form of cap and trade. I was a vocal opponent to cap and trade when it failed in a Democrat controlled congress, and it will fail again. Texas, along with more than twenty other states, is challenging the EPA's rule in court as it pertains to existing power plants in the US. The Obama rule on power plants would increase energy prices in Texas by up to 20 percent.
Rep. Joe Barton (R-Ennis/Arlington) released the following statements after voting for S.J. Res 23 and S.J. Res 24. These resolutions are identical to H.J. Res 71 and H.J. Res 72, which were introduced in the Energy and Commerce Committee.
"Today, the House voted to protect the American people from the president’s harmful and job killing agenda. S.J. Res 23 and S.J. Res 24 will keep the American energy revolution alive and well- this means abundant, affordable and reliable access to energy for all Americans. The passing of these resolutions declares Congressional disapproval of the EPA’s final two rules on new and existing power plants. By passing this crucial bipartisan and bicameral legislation, Congress has declared these EPA rules do not have the weight of law.
"The EPA is attempting to circumvent Congress and issue its own form of cap and trade. I was a vocal opponent to cap and trade when it failed in a Democrat controlled congress, and it will fail again. Texas, along with more than twenty other states, is challenging the EPA’s rule in court as it pertains to existing power plants in the US. The Obama rule on power plants would increase energy prices in Texas by up to 20 percent.
"Fittingly, the House will begin consideration this week on H.R. 8, the North American Energy and Infrastructure Act of 2015. This energy legislation provides the opposite effect on energy prices and the continuation of the American energy renaissance which has made Texas the country’s largest job creator. My amendment to end the ban on crude oil exports has been made in order to H.R. 8 and I expect it to be included in the final House passed legislation. By modernizing infrastructure and improving efficiency and government accountability, this bill provides for an all of the above energy plan and more successfully addresses the president’s concerns on global warming."
