Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) Lobbies for Repeal of Crude Export Ban | Russell T. Rudy Energy LLC
The answer is a resounding “Yes” if you ask Lisa Murkowski of Alaska. As the senior Republican on the Senate Energy Committee, Murkowski is working to build support for repeal of the crude export ban which was passed in response to the Arab Oil Embargo in the 1970’s. However, she realizes that neither party is willing to embrace repeal before the November 4 midterm elections. Politicians on both sides of the aisle fear that voters will see repeal of the export ban as leading to higher gasoline prices.
However, Murkowski points out that studies by the Brookings Institute and other groups have concluded that repeal of the crude export ban would actually reduce fuel prices. She feels that with time to educate her colleagues, and the absence of election pressure, repeal legislation might pass. If the Republicans take control of the Senate after the midterm elections, Murkowski will probably become chairman of the Energy Committee. As such, she should be able to move the process forward.
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