Congressman Gonzalez Starts Oil & Gas Caucus in House of Representatives
WASHINGTON— Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) announced the formation of the Congressional Oil & Gas Caucus, a Congressional Member Organization dedicated to educating Members of Congress about issues related to the production, transport, refining, distribution, and trade of oil, gas, and other petroleum hydrocarbons including crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids.
The Congressman will serve as chair of the newly-formed caucus and hopes to quickly grow the group's membership. As chair, Congressman Gonzalez will serve as an advocate about the economic benefits of fully harnessing the country's natural resources.
"In recent years, our nation's energy sector has experienced dramatic growth and increased innovation – we have seen the United States become the world's leading producer of oil and natural gas," Congressman Gonzalez said.
Congressman Gonzalez is a strong proponent of maximizing American energy resources as a comprehensive approach for strengthening the economy. The Eagle Ford Shale, potentially the largest economic development in Texas, runs through the Congressman's district, and has created thousands of jobs in the region.
"The 15th District of Texas is home to several refineries, pipelines, and part of the Eagle Ford Shale – I have witnessed the effects of a thriving oil and gas industry firsthand," Congressman Gonzalez said.
"As a Texan, I have a unique understanding of how the industry works and its importance for the communities in my district, across the country, and around the world. I hope that the Oil & Gas Caucus can serve as a space for members from all over the country to learn more about the oil and gas industry and come away not only with a better understanding of the scientific and technical aspects, but also gain a better understanding of how technological advancements and growth benefit all of us," Congressman Gonzalez concluded.
The Committee on House Administration issued the following letter to Congressman Gonzalez authorizing the formation of the Oil & Gas Caucus. Read the full letter below:
June 9, 2017
The Honorable Vicente Gonzalez
113 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Representative Gonzalez:
Thank you for your submission to register the Congressional Oil & Gas Caucus as a Congressional Member Organization (CMO) of the U.S. House of Representatives for the 115th Congress. The Committee has reviewed your request and determined that both the described purpose of the organization and the registration information appear to be in full compliance with the applicable regulations.
The Committee is pleased to accept the registration for the 115th Congress. For your convenience, I have attached a summary of the regulations governing the activities of a CMO. Should the purpose of the organization be amended or the roster of the officers or key staff contacts change during the 115th Congress, please notify the Committee in a timely manner to ensure that the Committee's records are updated accordingly.
If you have any questions regarding the regulations governing the registration or operation of a CMO, please contact Amanda Anger at the Committee at 202-226-0647.
Sincerely,
Gregg Harper
Chairman