U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-09) today announced his support for a comprehensive energy plan called the American Energy Act that will provide for more affordable energy for Missouri families, create much-needed jobs and help clean up the environment.

“The American Energy Act offers more affordable energy, more jobs here at home and a cleaner environment.  It also will increase our energy supplies through an ‘all of the above’ energy policy that will provide energy independence for Missouri families,” Luetkemeyer said. “This plan stands in stark contrast to the national energy tax promoted by congressional liberals that even the President has admitted would cause energy prices to ‘skyrocket.’ Estimates suggest that the cap and tax plan will cost us millions of American jobs, as manufacturers are forced to close their doors or relocate overseas because of the new burdens created by this flawed legislation.” 

The American Energy Act is centered on domestic production of our natural resources, and a renewed commitment to safe and emissions-free nuclear energy. According to the Department of Energy, the safest and most efficient way for utility companies to control carbon emissions is to increase their supply of nuclear energy.

 The goal of the American Energy Act is to license 100 new nuclear reactors over the next 20 years by streamlining the burdensome regulatory process and ensuring the recycling and safe storage of spent nuclear fuel.

 The American Energy Act also seeks to increase domestic supply by lifting restrictions on the Arctic Coastal Plain, the Outer Continental Shelf and oil shale in the Mountain West.  Revenues generated through domestic production will support innovation in renewable and alternative energy sources, like wind and solar technologies.