For Immediate Release:
Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2005

Contact:

Michael Allen
(202) 225-2701

WASHINGTON D.C. - - U.S. Representative Dan Boren announced today that he has been appointed to a seat on the influential House Committee on Resources – a panel expected to play a key role in shaping energy policy in the upcoming session of Congress.

Commenting on his appointment, Boren said, “I’m very excited about going to work on the House Resources Committee. Given Oklahoma’s extensive tribal and energy interests, it will put me in a unique position to drive economic development in our state.”

“As Congress takes up a comprehensive energy plan this year, the Resources Committee will play a critical role in shaping that legislation, and I plan to be a strong advocate for Oklahoma’s energy industry – a major segment of out state’s economy.”

Commenting further about his new post, Boren said, “It’s a good opportunity for us to shape policy to protect our outdoors for sportsmen and manage valuable resources such as water for Oklahomans.”

Congressman Nick J. Rahall, the ranking Democrat on the Committee stated, “I am pleased to welcome Representative Dan Boren to the House Resources Committee and I look forward to working closely with him as we take up many issues important to rural America during the 109th Congress. The people of Oklahoma can rest assured that they have found a strong new voice on the Resources Committee.”

Since Indian Affairs also falls under the jurisdiction of the House Resources Committee, Boren talked about what his new post could mean to Oklahoma’s large Native American population. “We must preserve the culture of our native peoples, while at the same time building bridges between tribal, state and federal governments to create economic opportunities for all Eastern Oklahomans,” said Boren.

After learning of Boren appointment, Governor Bill Anoatubby of the Chickasaw Nation commented: “We are very pleased about Rep. Boren’s appointment to the Resources Committee. This is great news not only for the Chickasaw Nation, but for all our Native American brothers and sisters throughout the state. I look forward to working with Congressman Boren as an active partner in economic development for our region.”

The appointment - Boren’s second committee assignment, came shortly after being named to the House Armed Services Committee. The Resources Committee oversees Indian affairs as well as the nation's public natural resources including national parks and monuments, recreational areas, and other public lands, water resources, and matters concerning the Endangered Species Act.

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