T. Boone Pickens Names Kissell an “Energy Independence Crusader”

Congressman Larry Kissell and other members of Congress met with T. Boone Pickens, architect of the Pickens Plan, Wednesday to lend their support to H.R. 1835, the NAT GAS Act.

The New Alternative Transportation to Give Americans Solutions Act, or NAT GAS Act, would quickly reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign energy while simultaneously reducing transportation fuel costs, greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles, and urban pollution where dense vehicular fleets are prevalent.

“I have said many times I believe ending our dependence on foreign oil is one of the most critical issues facing our nation, and I chose to sign onto this legislation because it is one solution to the problem,” Kissell said. “North Carolina is on the forefront of Mr. Pickens’ movement. There are more North Carolinians signed up to support the Pickens Plan than in any other state – 157,000 strong.”

Appearing at the U.S. Capitol to mark the anniversary of the launch of the Pickens Plan and Energy Independence Day, Pickens, an oil executive turned alternative energy advocate, lauded Kissell for his efforts to make domestic natural gas a more accessible alternative to imported oil as a co-sponsor of the NAT GAS Act.

“As a supporter of the NAT GAS Act, Congressman Kissell is a true energy independence crusader, proving his commitment to enabling his constituents in the Eighth District to choose a legitimately American fuel at the pump,” said Pickens. “Natural gas is the only available domestic resource that can replace foreign oil as a transportation fuel. It’s cleaner, it’s cheaper, it’s abundant, and it’s ours.”

Last month, the Potential Gas Committee released a study estimating that natural gas reserves have surged by 35 percent.