Governor Bentley Begins Chairmanship of Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission
By: Blake Deshazo
Updated: January 9, 2013
MONTGOMERY
- With a focus on responsible energy development, Governor Robert
Bentley has accepted the chairmanship of the Interstate Oil and Gas
Compact Commission. Governor Bentley is the
first Alabama governor to serve as chairman of the IOGCC.
The
IOGCC is a multi-state agency that advocates for environmentally-sound
methods of increasing the supply of American energy. The goal of the
IOGCC is to keep oil and gas regulation within
the states while advocating responsible energy policies.
"A
strong energy supply is crucial for job creation, for economic stability
and for making oil and natural gas more affordable," Governor Bentley
said. "We must reduce our dependence on foreign
oil while making wise use of our domestic energy resources. As chairman
of the IOGCC, I will work closely with other states on policies that
help us achieve that goal."
Governor
Bentley recognizes the growing potential for alternative sources of
energy. The majority of America's energy needs, however, are still met
by more traditional sources. Governor Bentley
believes America can make responsible use of domestic energy while
ensuring that proper procedures and regulations protect environmental
and quality-of-life concerns.
"We
all see the future promise of alternative sources of energy, such as
wind, solar and biofuels; however, those sources are currently unable to
meet all of our energy needs," Governor Bentley
said. "That's why oil and natural gas will continue to serve an
essential role for the foreseeable future, and that's why we must
continue to develop our North American oil and natural gas resources."
Throughout
his term as chairman, Governor Bentley plans to focus on various
additional priorities. His chairman's initiative includes more
extensive training for oil and gas inspector certification.
His initiative also includes better communications among member states,
such as bringing regulatory and technical staff together to share ideas
and best practices.
Governor
Bentley's term as chairman officially started during the recent IOGCC
Annual Meeting in San Antonio, Texas. IOGCC members will visit Alabama
in May during the IOGCC 2013 Midyear Issues
Summit in Point Clear.
"Alabama
is blessed with abundant and diverse energy supplies, including oil and
natural gas, which are important to our country's security," IOGCC
Executive Director Carl Michael Smith said.
"IOGCC looks forward to Governor Bentley's leadership for our 38 member
states during 2013."
"By
working with other states, we can conserve and develop oil and gas
resources through safe and environmentally-sound operations," Governor
Bentley said. "I will work closely with the governors
and representatives of all IOGCC states to help achieve the commission's
goals for the coming year."
