Task force hears from Oklahoma officials and producers about natural gas prices

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- Energy producers say the federal government has contributed to the shortage of natural gas and the price increases that have followed. <br><br>Members of the Speaker's Natural

Thursday, August 28th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- Energy producers say the federal government has contributed to the shortage of natural gas and the price increases that have followed.

Members of the Speaker's Natural Gas Task Force for Affordable Natural Gas were told in a congressional hearing at the state Capitol that federal policies that encourage the use of natural gas, but limit where companies can explore and drill, have led to shortages and volatile price changes in the nation's natural gas supply.

The committee appointed by House Speaker Dennis Hastert of Illinois is chaired by Representative Tom Cole of Oklahoma and includes Representatives Joe Barton of Texas and John Shimkus of Illinois.

Members of the task force are conducting congressional hearings throughout the United States and are expected to come up with a plan to curb natural gas price increases, especially during cold winter months.