Connie Johnson on Energy & Oil

Strongly support prioritizing green energy

A: Strongly support. Green energy is a central tenet in our campaign for better jobs through rebuilding and continuing to develop our infrastructure, including alternative energy sources for Oklahomans.

Stop subsidizing dirty fossil fuels

Connie believes we shouldn't use taxpayer dollars to only subsidize one of the most profitable industries in the world for the dirty fossil fuels of the past. We should also utilize Oklahoma's clean energy resources--such as wind, hydropower, and solar--to transition our state and our country into an energy independent 21st century.

We must improve our buildings--i.e. our homes and businesses-- and make them more energy efficient. Right now, such buildings are among the biggest polluters in the world.

Streamline permitting process for new oil refineries

Summary by the Oklahoma City Journal Record (5/25/06): : House Bill 2810, by state Rep. Lee Denney, R-Cushing, and Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Morgan, D-Stillwater, now goes to the Senate for a final vote. "This bill cuts out a large chunk of the bureaucracy that prevents the creation of new jobs that contribute to Oklahoma's economic growth," said Denney. "Oklahoma has a rich history in the oil and gas industry, but there hasn't been a new refinery built in the United States in more than 30 years."

Legislative outcome: Passed House 95-4-2 on May/24/2006; Passed Senate 43-0-5 on May/26/2006; State Sen. Connie Johnson voted YES; Signed by Governor Brad Henry on Jun/7/2006.