Grassley Meets With Iowans to Discuss Energy Issues

Grassley Meets With Iowans to Discuss Energy Issues

Iowa Senator Seeks Input on Energy Policies Next Week

Sen. Chuck Grassley will visit 14 Iowa communities during the congressional recess that starts Monday, May 28, as part of his long-time commitment to visit each of Iowa's 99 counties at least one time every year. During his community visits, Grassley will focus on affordable energy and long-term care with Iowans.

"Energy is at the top of every debate list because of increased prices and looming energy shortages. With the recent release of President Bush's National Energy Policy, I want to know what Iowans think," Grassley said. "Iowans have a unique opportunity in the future of energy as many of the by-products from Iowa commodities ? wind, biomass, corn-based ethanol and soy diesel ? are the basis for several items recognized as good alternative energy sources."

Town meetings are planned for New Hampton, Independence, Mt. Pleasant, Fort Madison, Bloomfield and Sigourney, and are open to the public. Grassley said all area residents are invited and encouraged to bring their questions and comments about the energy crisis, tax cut debate, Medicare reform, prescription drugs, or any other issue they'd like to talk about. Grassley has sponsored legislation that gives tax credits for renewable energy sources and long-term care legislation.

"I've made sure to hold a meeting in each of Iowa's 99 counties every year that I've represented Iowa in the Senate because dialogue between members of Congress and citizens is fundamental to our democracy," Grassley said. "I look forward to talking with as many Iowans as possible next week about the issues they're concerned about. The ideas and input gathered at these meetings are very important to me as I do my job in Washington."

Grassley will also be holding meetings in Cresco, Oelwein, Columbus Junction, Burlington and Keosauqua. These meeting will focus on long-term care and Sen. Grassley's legislation to help family care givers.

Information about Grassley's May 29-31 meetings in Iowa follows. He will be available for 15 minutes after each of these scheduled events to respond to questions from local reporters.