President Barack Obama has unveiled a series of energy initiatives that closely track the Pickens Plan. Legislation to provide incentives to move the nation’s heavy duty and fleet vehicles to natural gas has widespread bipartisan support in Congress, with more than 180 co-sponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives. A similar bill in the Senate also has strong bipartisan support.

I’ve accomplished my goal of achieving legislation and proposed policies to help solve the OPEC oil crisis. The ball’s now in Washington’s court. What we need is leadership. Despite the political partisanship that divides Washington, I am hopeful and confident Congress will put America’s best energy future first.

It’s great to see the President engaging in important and meaningful dialogue on this subject. But proposals are not enacted policies. The pressure needs to remain on. I will continue to be outspoken on this subject, and continue to call out the special interests that are working to undermine this bold and important agenda.

Boone shares his thoughts after President Obama’s State of the Union address.

It is so encouraging to see Republicans and Democrats come together to put America first. I salute Senators Menendez, Burr, Chambliss and Majority Leader Reid for recognizing that we need a fiscally responsible energy policy that cuts dependence on foreign oil while creating American jobs, lifting our economy, enhancing our national security, and protecting our environment.

During a recent hearing in the U.S. House of Representatives about a variety of issues including the NAT GAS Act (HR 1380), several of the speakers explained how this legislation will accelerate the adoption of natural gas as a transportation fuel in the United States, and more quickly reduce our dependence on OPEC oil.