Congressman Dennis Cardoza
18th Congressional District of California

“I am supporting the alternative bill because working families need our help, not big oil,” said Cardoza.  “At a time of record profits for oil and gas companies, this bill would give away giant subsidies to the energy industry and weaken environmental protections. That’s disgraceful. The alternative bill I am supporting cracks down on gouging and keeps important environmental protections in place.”

Under restrictive House rules, proposed amendments to increase Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for autos were not included in the Republican version of the bill. Congressman Cardoza is an original co-sponsor of a bill that would raise CAFE standards from today’s average of 25 miles per gallon to 33 miles per gallon by 2015.  The bill would reduce the nation’s oil needs by 2.6 million barrels a day by 2025

Congressman Cardoza strongly believes U.S. energy policy must focus more on investment in renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind and biomass.  UC Merced’s campus, which opened its doors this fall, sets a sterling example of energy efficiency. By embracing 21^st century technologies to maximize energy-efficiency, UC Merced will save millions of dollars and ease the strain on California and the country’s energy resources.

 “We need a comprehensive energy strategy that combines responsible exploration with incentives for renewable energy and stricter fuel economy standards. That is the only way to reduce our dependence on foreign oil and improve air quality,” said Cardoza.