News Release

ACC: President Bush Lifts Executive Ban on Offshore Energy Development as Bipartisan Talks Continue in Congress

President’s Announcement is Historic Step Toward Comprehensive Energy Solution

ARLINGTON, VA (July 14, 2008) – Today President George W. Bush lifted the executive ban on offshore domestic energy development in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS).  More information is available at http://www.whitehouse.gov/.  Meanwhile, bipartisan talks continue in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate among a number of lawmakers exploring energy legislation that could include offshore domestic energy supply.

American Chemistry Council (ACC) President & CEO Jack N. Gerard issued the following statement:

“Today’s historic announcement by President Bush is a positive sign of change and a significant step in the right direction for U.S. energy policy.  While today’s action alone does not solve the problem, it takes us one step closer to a comprehensive solution and a more affordable, secure energy future.  We’re encouraged not only by today’s news, but also the important bipartisan talks taking place in the House and Senate among lawmakers exploring energy legislation that could include domestic supply. 

“Clearly, the ground is shifting on energy policy.  As the crisis has grown, as it has become clear to Americans that the United States is jeopardizing our own economy and our ability to compete globally by not moving forward with expanded domestic energy development, and as poll after poll have shown that more than two-thirds of Americans support it, we’ve seen growing interest in this issue among lawmakers of both parties. We strongly encourage the House and Senate to continue exploring comprehensive energy legislation that includes efficiency; diversity, including renewables and other lower-emission sources and technologies; and expanded domestic energy supply.”

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