Energy Bill Prospects Dim in Dispute Over Drilling, Drought
Source: By The Associated Press • Posted: Tuesday, June 7, 2016
WASHINGTON — Congressional efforts to approve the first major energy bill in nearly a decade are in jeopardy amid a partisan dispute over oil drilling, water for drought-stricken California and potential rollback of wildlife protections.
A bipartisan bill the Senate approved in April would boost oil and natural gas production while encouraging renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, and increased energy efficiency.
The bill’s prospects dimmed after the House approved a series of election-year amendments last month that promote Republican priorities such as increased drilling for oil and gas and overriding protections for the gray wolf and other species under the Endangered Species Act.
The House proposal includes at least seven measures that the White House strongly opposes or has threatened to veto.