In an effort to lower gas prices and create up to 1 million new jobs, U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-3) today voted to expand onshore and offshore energy production, streamline permitting processes, and reduce red tape in the Lowering Gasoline Prices to Fuel an America That Works Act.

“This bill seeks to stop the bleeding by  bringing down the cost of gas prices and  creating new employment opportunities by tapping into energy resources we have  right here at home,” Luetkemeyer said. “With the situation unfolding in Iraq, this is another reminder about why it is so important to increase production here in America.”

Specifically, this legislation would implement a drill-smart plan that would expand offshore energy production and open new areas that contain the most oil and natural gas resources. It would help expand onshore oil and natural gas production on federal lands and it is equally important for America’s national security. With the situation happening in Iraq, this is another reminder that we should utilize the energy resources we have in our own backyards rather than continue to be exposed to an increasingly volatile international market.