Unlock America's Energy Resources

The United States is an energy rich nation that continues to act like an energy poor nation. During one of our busiest travel periods of the year, it is important to focus on policies that will drive down costs at the gas pump.

This week, the House of Representatives passed three bills intended to lower gas prices, create good-paying jobs, and unlock domestic sources of energy. We can do that right here at home, without looking to nations overseas.

First, the Lowering Gasoline Prices to Fuel an America That Works Act increases offshore oil production by requiring the Obama Administration to move forward with new offshore energy production in areas containing the most oil and natural gas resources.

Second, the North American Energy Infrastructure Act requires that cross-border oil pipelines be approved within 120 days unless they are found to compromise national security interests. The delay we have seen with the Keystone pipeline project should never happen again.

Finally, the Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act speeds up exports of U.S. natural gas to our allies. Increasing natural gas exports will help boost the economy while making us less dependent on other countries.

I was proud to support these three bills, all of which passed the House. Right now, an overbearing government is making energy more expensive. Whether it's lowering gas prices or preventing bigger electric bills, common sense solutions are needed to ease the squeeze on middle class Missourians.