Sen. Phil Gramm, chairman of the Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, has announced that the full committee will hold a hearing at 10 a.m. Friday, February 9 on the California energy crisis and the use of the Defense Production Act.

"The DPA gives very broad authority for defense and national security purposes," Gramm said. "As the Banking Committee reviews the DPA authorities, which expire later this year, we need to examine very carefully this most recent use and to evaluate whether the energy crisis in California is truly an emergency that would be appropriate for invoking these sweeping presidential powers."

Former President Clinton authorized the U.S. Energy Secretary to use the Defense Production Act of 1950 to compel a continuing supply of natural gas to Pacific Gas & Electric, a utility company that provides electricity to California. Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham extended the authorization.

The Senate Banking Committee has had jurisdiction over defense production since the 1970s under Rule XXV of the Standing Rules of the Senate.

WHAT:

California Energy Crisis and Use of The Defense Production Act

WHEN:

10:00 a.m. February 9, 2001

WHERE:

Room 538, Dirksen Senate Building

WHO:

Mr. Eric J. Fygi
Acting General Counsel
Department of Energy

Mr. Paul F. Carrier
Director of Energy Emergencies
Department of Energy