The Gulf Coast Oil Spill

If the recent Gulf Coast oil spill points out anything, it is the need for us to reduce our chemical dependency on fossil fuels. We need to develop a collective attitude and begin teaching that fossil fuels are old-fashioned and should be phased out in a realistic timeline. And, if not phased out, at least cut back to a reasonable and well-researched level of demand. Tax credits should be provided to car buyers who purchase energy efficient automobiles such as “Hybrid” vehicles and electric cars. State agencies and other governmental agencies at the county and municipal level must lead the way by requesting bids on alternative-fueled cars and trucks. With this in mind, this past session I passed a bill with the help of State Rep. Sid Mathias, now awaiting the governor’s signature, which amends the Alternate Fuels Act providing that a conversion cost rebate may be issued for the cost of converting a conventional vehicle to an alternate fuel vehicle. This is the kind of cooperative spirit from Springfield that will reduce the likelihood of offshore tragedies like that in the Gulf Coast.

Click here to see the bill online

Click here to read President Obama’s address on the crisis