CONGRESSMAN CARNEY'S MESSAGE

September 18, 2009

Dear Friend,

Earlier this week I supported legislation to strengthen both our economy and our national security. The Advanced Vehicle Technology Act (AVTA), which passed with broad bi-partisan support (312-114), will create the most comprehensive national vehicle research and development program to date. This program is aimed at keeping American industry at the forefront of alternative energy and fuel efficient auto technology far into the future.

This legislation is a definitive acknowledgement that it is time for the United States to become a leader in renewable energy and fuel-efficient technology. I am a firm believer that an investment in renewable fuels not only lessens our dependence on foreign oil but also increases our national security.

I am committed to sensible energy policies like this that will lower the price of fuel, strengthen our national security, grow our economy and create new jobs. The Advanced Vehicle Technology Act is a step in that direction. This is a much needed investment in research that will ensure that the quality, fuel-efficient cars of the future are manufactured here in the United States. The development of these new vehicle technologies will strengthen our energy security by reducing our dependence on foreign petroleum, strengthen our economy by protecting and creating high paying jobs, and allow American car manufacturers to remain globally competitive.

This AVTA reauthorizes an Energy Department vehicle technology research and development program. The program is designed to study materials, technologies and processes that could reduce car and truck petroleum usage and related emissions. Investing in research and development of advanced vehicle technologies will help our auto companies emerge from the global economic crisis and increase their global competitiveness. This legislation will help ensure the cars of the future are built here in the U.S., creating good paying jobs and reducing our dependence on foreign oil.

The bipartisan Advanced Vehicle Technology Act is supported by a broad coalition, including labor groups like the United Autoworkers, auto companies such as Ford Motor Company, General Motors and Chrysler, business groups like the Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Manufacturers and environmental groups, such as the Sierra Club and Natural Resources Defense Council.

This legislation is only one piece of Congress's efforts to move us towards energy independence, and I was proud to support it. As always, please feel free to contact my office at 202-225-3731 for more information on this or any other issue, and have a wonderful weekend.


Sincerely,

Christopher P. Carney
Member of Congress