Crapo: Energy Bill Creates Jobs,Moves Toward National Energy Policy

Washington, DC - The U.S. will soon be a big step closer to a permanent national energy policy that could create an estimated half-million new jobs and expand renewable energy sources, according to Idaho Senator Mike Crapo. Crapo said a compromise reached tonight between Senate Republicans and Democrats means a bill shelved last year is now being substituted for the energy bill that was being debated earlier this week. Crapo said the 84-14 vote meant both parties compromised on last yearâ??s energy bill in order to get an agreement that can be taken to a conference committee. â??The United States has needed a national energy policy for years, and we should not lose this opportunity to move a step forward to this goal,â?? Crapo said. â??Itâ??s important to our national security as well as our economic security.â??Crapo said language benefiting the proposed Generation IV nuclear reactor project at the INEEL will be resolved in the conference committee. â??By agreeing to move this bill to conference, we now have it to the point where provisions benefiting Idaho, such as the Generation IV nuclear reactor project, can be included in the final text,â?? Crapo said. â??Senator Craig and I have been working closely with our leadership to assure that the provisions in the energy bill that are important to Idaho are preserved,â?? Crapo said. â??Idaho is very fortunate that Senator Craig is on the Energy Committee and will serve on the conference committee that will resolve the differences between the House-passed and Senate-passed bills.â??# # # FOR INTERESTED MEDIA: A radio actuality is available by calling 1-800-545-1267. Press 327 at any time during or after the greeting and instructions. If you encounter any difficulties with the system, please contact Susan Wheeler at the above number. You can also access the actuality through the Internet at www.senate.gov/src/radio/crapo.