Press Releases

Today, Congressman Van Drew's amendment to H.R.1, the Lower Energy Costs Act, passed the House of Representatives. 

"The Lower Energy Costs Act is essential in relieving Americans' burden at the pump and regaining American energy independence," said Congressman Van Drew. "However, I needed assurances that fast-tracking offshore wind development would not be included absent adequate investigations into what the potential adverse effects of these projects would have across all sectors, including our environment and the economy. 

"I am proud that my colleagues joined me in passing my amendment which would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit reports to Congress laying out all potential adverse effects that industrial wind grids would have on our pertinent industries and sectors. As I have stated previously, offshore wind will be the most dramatic change to our Atlantic Coast in United States history, and this amendment is a major victory in ensuring that our New Jersey coastlines are protected from industrialization." 

Background:

• Requires the Comptroller General of the United States to publish a report on all potential adverse effects of wind energy development in the North Atlantic Planning Area. 
• Including impacts on: maritime safety, the economy, maritime environment and ecology, including species listed as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act. 

Click here to read the full text of the amendment. 

Click here to watch my remarks.