More on House of Representatives Republicans call for energy reform

I continue to be pleased when I hear from those of you who support the actions my colleagues and I are taking on the floor of the House of Representatives to call for energy reform. The conflict in Georgia highlights the imperative need for the United States to work toward independence from foreign oil using American-made solutions, including exploration and the development of clean, renewable sources.

The high oil prices that are bankrupting household budgets are producing a massive transfer of wealth from American families to foreign countries like Russia. Many of these countries are regimes who would seek to use this new wealth to further their anti-American agenda and undermine US interests. I will to call for decisive action from Congress to lower gas prices in order to relieve the strain on our families and curtail this egregious risk to our national security.

I have actively advocated legislation that will help move America away from foreign oil dependency. Alternative and renewable fuels will play a key role in this effort, and while the energy crisis facing America has invigorated the creative minds of engineers, scientists, and environmentalists to embrace renewable, alternative, and fuel-efficient energies, we should not ignore the possibilities that can result from deep-sea exploration. The increase in domestic crude oil supply has the capability to provide a solution to our energy crisis, and allow for a bridge to the future as we investigate long-term options.

I want you to know that I will continue to be an advocate for policies that benefit our economy and our nation’s security. Developing American-made energy solutions will ultimately lead to a more stable long-term domestic energy policy, while strengthening our national security.

Sincerely,

Scott Garrett
Member of Congress

IMPORTANT COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Vegetation Management
I’d like to notify you about the latest update pertaining to the vegetation management standards set by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU). The NJBPU has announced it will be holding a stakeholders meeting on August 21, 2008. This is an excellent opportunity for concerned citizens like you to participate in the policy making process. During this meeting, you can have a chance to raise any areas of concern you may have within vegetation management rules, as well as suggestions for how to address those concerns without compromising safe and reliable electric service.

Should you have any further questions or concerns please do not hesitate to call Michael Muldowney in my Paramus District office at 201-712-0330.

USDA Disaster Designations
Due to the losses caused by hail, high winds, and excessive rain on June 16, 2008, parts of Bergen, Passaic, and Sussex counties have been designated as agricultural disaster areas by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in a letter released last week. As a result, many residents in our district may be eligible for Farm Service Agency emergency loans. These emergency loan funds can be used to restore or replaces property that is deemed “essential” by the USDA, pay all or part of production costs associated with the disaster year, pay essential family living expenses, reorganize the farming operation, and refinance certain debts.

For further information on eligibility, loan terms, and application deadlines, please contact any of my offices.

NEW MOBILE CONSTITUENT SERVICES ADDITION

I am excited to announce a new addition to the Mobile Constituent Services Program that my office runs. Starting September 2, 2008 from 1pm-3pm a member of my staff will be at the Wyckoff Town Hall, located at 340 Franklin Avenue, Scott Plaza in the Second Floor Conference Room, waiting to assist you with any federal agency. My staff will then return to the Town Hall on the first Tuesday of every month from 1pm-3pm.

CONGRESSMAN SCOTT GARRETT’S OFFICE COMING TO A TOWN NEAR YOU:
Congressman Garrett’s staff will be holding Mobile Constituent Service Hours in a number of Fifth District towns this week. The Congressman’s Constituent Service Officers are trained to act as your liaisons with Federal agencies. But, it’s not always easy to make it out to one of the Congressman’s district offices – in Paramus and Newton – to meet with one of them, especially when you are dealing with government red tape. These Mobile Constituent Service Hours sessions bring the Congressman’s office to you. So, if you are having trouble with a Federal program, such as Medicare, veterans benefits, Social Security, or more, please feel free to come by. And, please bring copies of any relevant paperwork with you to facilitate their work.

Wednesday, August 20th
Sandyston
10:00am – 12:00pm
Town Hall, 133 Route 645

Wednesday, August 20th
Ridgewood
10:00am – 12:00pm
Borough Hall, 131 N. Maple Avenue

Wednesday, August 20th
Allendale
1:00pm – 3:00pm
Borough Hall, 500 W. Crescent Avenue

Thursday, August 21st
Bloomingdale
10:00am – 12:00pm
Council Chambers, 101 Hamburg Turnpike

Thursday, August 21st
Dumont
1:00pm – 3:00pm
Town Hall - 50 Washington Avenue