BISHOP VOTES TO PROTECT JOBS, CONSUMERS

Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) voted in favor of H.R. 3409, the “Coal Miner Employment and Domestic Energy Infrastructure Protection Act” in order to keep energy prices affordable, to streamline the federal regulatory process, and to prevent regulatory initiatives that unnecessarily impede economic growth.

“While I am in favor of exploring new renewable options for our energy supply, it is important to protect the sources of fuel we already draw upon,” said Congressman Bishop. “Rural America and businesses across our nation need to be able to rely on a steady and affordable source of energy in order to continue to drive America forward.”

H.R.3409 is supported by the United States Chamber of Commerce and the American Farm Bureau and is designed to keep price of coal low—a necessity for affordable electric production in Georgia. The bill also decreases the Environmental Protection Agency’s authority over water regulation if a state opposes the agency’s actions.

Passage of this bill will ensure that Georgians are able to prioritize their water needs, can weigh in on federal regulations in a meaningful way, and have access to an essential resource they need to do business. Finally, an increase in cost of business for farmer and ranchers would potentially raise food prices for consumers.

H.R. 3409 passed the U.S. House of Representatives in a vote of 233 to 175.