Lorain Times

Congressman Bob Latta, who represents Ohio’s 5th district and serves as Chairman of the Energy Subcommittee on the Energy and Commerce Committee, has written an opinion piece in the Washington Times discussing the importance of nuclear energy for America’s future energy needs.

In his op-ed, Latta states, "When we talk about clean energy, solar and wind power dominate the conversation. But if we are serious about cutting carbon emissions, meeting growing energy demands, and keeping costs low for families, we cannot afford to overlook one of the most powerful tools available for our disposal: nuclear energy."

He highlights recent discussions within his committee: "Experts acknowledge we need to be producing more energy in this country, not less. At a recent Energy Subcommittee hearing, I asked the Regional Transmission Organizations (TRO) and Independent System Operators (ISO) if America needs more, or less, energy to meet demand. Every witness said America needs to produce more energy to meet the growing demand. They also made it clear that we cannot afford to take any existing generation offline. Growing demand means we need more energy available for families; manufacturers, of all sizes; including farmers; and medical facilities..."

Latta has been a member of Congress since 2007 after replacing Paul Gillmor. He previously served in both chambers of Ohio's state legislature as well as on the Wood County Board of Commissioners. More background information reveals that Latta was born in Bluffton, Ohio in 1956 and currently resides in Bowling Green. He graduated from Bowling Green State University with a bachelor's degree in 1978 and later earned a law degree from the University of Toledo in 1981.