Fuel Prices and Our Nation's Security

By William Charles "Bill" Boyer, IV

Bringing true market forces back into play (short-term) and getting on with the business of alternative fuels...NOW

India and China are dramatically increasing their consumption of this finite resource. To be solely dependent on oil to fuel our economy is inherently dangerous for our economic health, our strategic interests, and our environment.

The oil companies have insulated themselves from price swings and continue to pile-up record profits on the backs of the consumer. We are not insulated, nor have we been allowed to play our legitimate role in the free market as discriminating customers.

We must return true market forces to the industry by:

Having the Department of Justice review the pricing practices and conclude if the Big 5 oil companies should be broken up into smaller identities, or at least be barred from being involved in all aspects of the market process.

Dedicating the federal tax on gasoline to fuel a "race to alternatives" program. This program should have the same sense of purpose as the dedication our country had during the Space Race of the 1950's, '60's and '70's.

Writing federal anti-price gouging laws that hold the station owner and oil company CEO criminally liable anytime gas prices are artificially raised during a time of disaster, natural or otherwise.