WALZ APPLAUDS D.O.E. ON QUICK ACTION ON RISING GAS PRICES

"U.S. House"

05/16/2008

(Mankato, MN) – Today, Congressman Walz released the following statement, applauding the U.S. Department of Energy for canceling oil shipments to the government reserves beginning in July.

“Earlier today, as oil prices hit a record high $127 a barrel, President Bush met with Saudi officials who refused his request to help bring down prices for American consumers who are being gouged at the pump,” said Walz. “This news was disappointing, but not unexpected. Instead of asking the Saudis for help, President Bush needs to work with Congress to find ways to address the rising cost of gas. That's why I applaud the Department of Energy for discontinuing purchases of oil for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, beginning in July. It is the right thing to do to address the sky rocketing prices at the pump and is a responsible step in the right direction to help ease the pain southern Minnesotans are feeling at the pump.”