Energy plan a national priority, poll says

WASHINGTON, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- Nearly nine in 10 Americans want Congress to pass a comprehensive national energy plan according to a survey released this week.

According to the Alliance for Energy and Economic Growth, which commissioned the poll, the survey registered "the highest level of support yet recorded for energy legislation that would increase the supply and delivery of affordable and reliable domestic energy."

Passage of a comprehensive energy package is a primary goal of the Republican congressional leadership. The most likely vehicle is hung up in a joint-House/Senate conference committee where, sources in the U.S. Capitol say, conferees are trying to iron out differences on tax-related matters. The delay has provoked criticism from the bill's supporters.

"The energy bill is past due. Congress needs to finish the job and pass an energy bill to help ensure a healthy economic recovery for America," the Alliance's Bruce Josten said. "This survey demonstrates that they have a mandate from their constituents back home to do so."

The Alliance for Economic Growth is a coalition of more than 1,350 energy producers and consumers. The poll of 1,000 adult Americans, conducted from Oct.3-7 by Wirthlin Worldwide, has a margin or error of 3.1 percent and a 95 percent confidence level.