House of Representatives: Ayes and Nays

By GottaLaff

Two House votes. First:

In response to record oil and gasoline prices, the House of Representatives on Thursday approved 402 to 19 legislation directing the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to use its authority, including the agency's emergency powers, to "curb immediately" the role of excessive speculation in energy futures markets. [...]

"The American people should not be punished at the pump for the actions of oil speculators," said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Next:

The House of Representatives on Thursday rejected legislation that would have required energy companies to develop oil and natural gas supplies on federal leases they have held for years or be denied future drilling access on government acres.

The legislation was an effort by the Democrats, who control the House, to show voters they were trying to do something to tackle record gasoline prices. Lawmakers will be on their Fourth of July holiday recess next week and will face angry constituents upset about pump costs.

Our government at work.