Bishop, delegation call for more state energy development

SALT LAKE CITY — Four members of Utah’s congressional delegation reiterated calls on Thursday for the federal government to give states greater freedom to develop energy.

Republican Sens. Orrin Hatch and Mike Lee and U.S. Reps. Rob Bishop and Chris Stewart discussed federal regulations and control of public lands at the second annual Governor’s Energy Development Summit in Salt Lake City.

The elected officials called for fewer federal restrictions which they say hamper opportunities to produce energy from oil shale and other resources.

Gov. Gary Herbert, who hosted the event, said with innovation and creativity, the state can balance producing energy from Utah’s natural resources while still protecting the environment.

The governor also said it’s important that people are conscious about energy efficiency and conservation.