Secretary Norton to Call for Bipartisan Energy Bill to Strengthen
National Security, Protect Environment & Reduce Foreign Oil Dependence
- Addresses Independent Petroleum Association in Houston on Oct. 26 -

(WASHINGTON) - Interior Secretary Gale Norton will address the Independent Petroleum Association of America on Oct. 26, in Houston, Texas.  Secretary Norton will focus on improving national security with increased conservation and environmentally sensitive domestic energy production.

The U.S. House passed a bipartisan bill earlier this year.  The U.S. Senate has stalled the bipartisan legislation, despite strong support from the working men and women of organized labor, Alaska Natives and Democratic members of the U.S. House and U.S. Senate.

"In the aftermath of last month’s terrorist attacks, Americans charged our government to strengthen national security," Secretary Norton said.  "True national security must expand conservation programs, reduce our dependence on foreign oil from dictators, such as Saddam Hussein, and create new jobs - all while protecting the environment.  The U.S. Senate should immediately allow a fair vote on bipartisan legislation to help families and to reduce our reliance on foreign oil."

Who:  Gale Norton, Secretary of the Interior
                Barry Russell, IPAA President
                Jerry Jordan, IPAA Chairman
                Diemer True, Chairman-Elect

What:  Keynote Speaker for the Independent Petroleum Association
                of America Membership Luncheon

When:  Friday, Oct. 26, 2001
                Luncheon: Noon (CT)                         Location:  Galleria Rooms 3 & 4
                Press Availability: 1:45 p.m. (CT)        Location:  West Alabama Room

Where:  Weston Galleria Hotel
                5060 West Alabama Street
                Houston, TX