FROM THE OFFICE OF CONGRESSMAN FLEMING
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 17, 2009

Contact: Amy Jones
Communications Director
202.225.2777 or amyejones@mail.house.gov

Fleming Holds First Energy Roundtable Discussion


Shreveport, LA – Congressman John Fleming held a roundtable discussion today with energy leaders from the 4th Congressional District to discuss the future needs of the industry and ways to maximize the potential of the Haynesville Shale.

“Today’s meeting focused on some of the biggest issues threatening the oil and gas industry. As a member of the Natural Resources Committee, I am focused on what needs to be done to make sure this industry, which creates thousands of jobs in Northwest Louisiana, continues to expand,” said Congressman Fleming. “Natural gas finds, like the Haynesville Shale, will bolster our economy and put people to work with good paying jobs, but the federal government must maintain a business friendly environment in which they can operate.”

The group discussed subjects such as natural gas cars and the opportunity it presents for Louisiana because of the lack of infrastructure currently in existence for this type of automobile. With natural gas identified as the greenest energy source available, not only would Louisiana benefit from increased production, but so would states such as Pennsylvania , Virginia , West Virginia and parts of New York .

“We need to send a message that there is a future in natural gas,” said Paul Ross, Bobcat Pipe and Supply, Inc. President. “The massive reserve in the Haynesville Shale perfectly positions us to take the lead in what would provide long term solvency for the energy sector and the car industry.”

The group also took the time to discuss the need for a comprehensive energy policy, providing tax credits for producers of alternative energy sources and finding commonality that will allow bipartisan policies to be crafted that benefits the energy sector and the public.

“We hope that the input from these energy experts will eventually lead to a very comprehensive energy policy for the nation,” said Ray Lasseigne, TMR Exploration President. “The 4th District is sitting on the Haynesville Shale gas field which can be extremely important in advising the national energy crisis.”

“It was encouraging to hear Congressman Fleming’s support for compressed natural gas as a key component to address this country’s energy needs,” said State Representative Henry Burns. “The Haynesville Shale is located primarily in the 4th Congressional District and has the potential to play an insurmountable role in making Louisiana the leader for energy independence and provide future solutions that impact crucial national security issues.”

Congressman Fleming sits on the Natural Resources Committee and the Subcommittee for Energy and Mineral Resources.



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