Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman André Carson threw his support behind H.R. 6578, the Consumer Energy Supply Act, which temporarily releases oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) and replaces it later with heavier, cheaper crude oil in order to bring down gas prices. The measure failed to garner the two-thirds majority required of bills placed on the suspension calendar because of strong Republican opposition to the measure.

“Soaring prices at the gas pump have placed undue financial burdens on many working families struggling to make ends meet during these tough economic times,” said Congressman Carson. “However, in voting against this measure, Republicans have shown that they are neither interested in nor committed to doing all that is necessary to lower high gas prices. By voting against this measure, Republicans are voting against the economic interests, needs and wellbeing of hard working American families.”
 
The Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) has been tapped or suspended before by President Bush, President Clinton, and the first President Bush and each time oil has been released the impact on prices has been dramatic and immediate. In 1991, oil prices immediately dropped by 33 percent.  The 2000 exchange drove oil prices down by 19 percent and the release by President Bush in 2005 resulted in a 9 percent drop.

“The time has come for us to adopt a more comprehensive energy policy that priorities and protects the interests of American consumers,” added Congressman Carson. “By properly prioritizing the needs of the American consumer, we better ensure the solvency and productivity of our economy and long-term strategic energy needs.”

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