Issue Position: Energy

Issue Position

Missouri should not treat our state's natural resources as if they were hazardous materials. Instead, we need to use the abundant resources we have in a responsible manner to both protect the environment and provide affordable rates to Central Missourians. A sensible approach to energy includes hydro-electric, nuclear, wind, coal and other bio-fueled production, including soy-based and corn-based fuel supplements.

I support the present and future use of coal even as we explore ways to make it cleaner. Coal generates much of the electricity in Missouri, and will continue to do so well into the future. Arbitrary and unnecessary laws which handicap our ability to compete economically make us our own worst enemy. Cap-and-trade laws will dramatically increase energy costs to all Missourians and have little to no impact on air quality across the globe. Major polluters such as India and China will continue to burn coal, keeping their prices low and causing more American jobs to be lost.

I support increasing domestic oil production. Domestically drilled oil, in addition to increased refining capacity, is critical to decreasing our dependence on Middle Eastern oil. Nuclear power must be a part of any discussion about the future of energy and has been a great asset to the 6th District. I will fight to protect the existing Callaway Nuclear Power Plant and look forward to advocating for a second reactor in Callaway County.

I will pursue policies and support legislation that make energy cheaper and more available to Central Missourians in a responsible manner.

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