Congressman Heath Shuler Votes to Invest in Sustainable Energy and to End Subsidies for Big Oil Companies

Washington, D.C. – Representative Heath Shuler voted to end American taxpayer
subsidies to Big Oil companies and to make strong investments in sustainable energy this
evening. H.R. 6, the Creating Long-Term Energy Alternatives for the Nation Act of 2007
(CLEAN Energy Act) passed the House with bi-partisan support 264-163. 
 
The legislation repeals $14 billion in subsidies given to Big Oil companies. Those funds
will be invested in clean and renewable energy to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. 
 
“The time has come for us to make America energy independent. Our reliance on foreign
petroleum is a serious national security risk, as well as a severe detriment to our
environment,” Rep. Shuler said. “By passing H.R. 6 today we have taken the initial steps
toward achieving true energy independence, while promoting job creation and protecting
our environment for future generations.” 
 
“It is shameful that our government has been giving away our taxpayer dollars to the Big
Oil companies while our working families are paying more at the gas pump. By ending
these subsidies, this corporate welfare program, we are finally worrying more about
American taxpayers than oil company profits.” 
 
In 2006, the big five oil companies made $97 billion – nearly five times their profits in
2002 while gas prices at the pump topped $3 per gallon.
 
 
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