Americans are hurting now, and now is the time for Congress to act. The American people should not have to wait until this fall or next year for Congress to take dramatic action toward energy independence.

And when Congress votes, there must be a full and fair debate that allows the Republican minority the opportunity to present our "all-of-the-above" solution, known as the American Energy Act. The American Energy Act encompasses more drilling, more use of clean energy sources and more conservation. It addresses our short-term energy needs with more exploration and our long-term energy needs with innovation and new technology.