Blue Dogs to study energy

The conservative Democratic Blue Dog Coalition created a task force on energy on Wednesday, and chose Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, to lead it.

"My goal is that this task force will propose energy policy that emphasizes the importance of increased domestic production," Matheson said.

He added the task force will encourage participation by the full spectrum of groups affected by energy production and use. "Something as complicated as the climate-change challenge requires a balanced and comprehensive plan. We have to get this right," so he wants all stakeholders to participate, he said.

The Blue Dogs said the task force will seek solutions aimed at "promoting national and economic security, with the understanding that America's continued prosperity depends on the availability of reliable, affordable sources of energy."

E-MAIL: lee@desnews.com