WASHINGTON, D.C. – After consulting closely with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Representative Edward J. Markey (D-MA) today withdrew his amendment to modernize fuel economy standards for American autos and light trucks, asserting that while he believed a majority of the members favor his bill, he could accomplish his objective in conference with the Senate, which has already passed a strong 35 miles per gallon (mpg) standard.

“I am satisfied that our strength in both the House and the Senate is sufficient to ensure that the progress we have made already to update our fuel economy standards will win out in conference. The country cannot afford to accept less than a 35 mpg standard if we are to wean ourselves off our addiction to imported oil,” said Rep. Markey.