“In light of nationwide consumer concern about the record prices for oil and gas at the pump, we urge the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to immediately initiate a rulemaking to implement the market manipulation authority mandated by Congress in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (P.L. 110-140).”

Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Republican Leader John Boehner, and House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer held a news conference in the Capitol this afternoon on Recovery Rebates.

“Lawmakers cranked up pressure Thursday on the Bush administration to stop filling the nation’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve amid growing election-year anxiety on Capitol Hill about high gasoline prices.”

“House Democratic leaders called on the U.S. Federal Trade Commission to investigate whether oil industry manipulation has contributed to a 24 percent rise in gasoline prices in the past year.”

“By obstructing a vote on the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, Senate Republicans have thwarted efforts to restore balance in the law and allow victims of wage discrimination to seek justice in the courts. In so doing, they have again stopped necessary progress for all Americans.”

“In an overwhelming and bipartisan vote, the House came together today to protect millions of vulnerable Americans and preserve our nation’s health care safety net.”

“I look forward to working with you, the Bush Administration, and our congressional colleagues on an economic recovery package that will be enacted swiftly.”

“As you know, the New Direction Congress has passed several pieces of legislation to promote American energy independence, prevent the manipulation of oil prices, punish those who cheat consumers, and promote the development and use of renewable fuels.”

“Dr. DeBakey, we honor you for the compassion you learned from your parents and for the skill, talent, and innovation you have practiced for more than 70 years as one of our nation’s medical pioneers.”

Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Majority Whip James E. Clyburn, Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, CAO Daniel Beard, and Acting Architect of the Capitol Stephen Ayers participated in a tree planting ceremony to commemorate the 38th Annual Earth Day today.