mr. chairman , the energy policy before us is comprehensive and timely .  it bolsters the economy while preserving the environment , recognizing that one need not be sacrificed for the other .  in addressing both present and future concerns , this plan provides real improvements to our energy policy with the goal of reducing our dependence on foreign oil .  this bill looks inward by expanding our refinery capacities and tapping into our domestic resources in an environmentally safe way .  this will help provide relief for rising gas prices and begin to safeguard us against the whims of opec .  beyond traditional energy , this plan promotes the development of renewable fuels .  by approving this bill , we will do much for the development and expansion of alternative fuels .  for example , the increased use of ethanol will not only reduce our dependence on foreign oil but will also benefit our economy and environment .  farmers in kansas and across the country stand ready to help with this effort .  we have gone without a national energy plan for far too long .  we must act now and finally pass this forward-looking energy plan into law .  