Bush Calls for Energy Bill to Meet Demands of New Century

President Bush is urging Congress to pass an energy bill that he says will reflect the demands of a new century.

In his weekly radio address Saturday, the president reflected on the rising price of gasoline in the United States and the impact those costs have on families and small businesses.

He says the United States must continue to invest in energy research, become less dependent on foreign power sources, and find more effective ways to use and supply energy.

He says the country also needs to develop alternative power sources, and promote safe, clean nuclear power. He also called for tax credits for renewable sources of energy, such as wind, solar and landfill gas.

Congress will debate energy legislation next week. Critics say a Republican proposal to allow oil drilling in Alaska would damage vital environmental areas. They also allege the bill does not do enough to promote energy efficiency.