WASHINGTON — Rep. Jim Matheson was named Thursday as co-chairman of the Energy Task Force of the House Democratic Caucus.

Before his election, Matheson, D-Utah, ran an energy consulting firm. His clients included public agencies and private businesses that were large users of energy and sought his help in meeting energy needs amid market deregulation.

"Jim Matheson's expertise on energy policy makes him a leader on this issue, so we're pleased to have a co-chair of his stature on this task force," said Rep. Martin Frost, D-Texas, chairman of the House Democratic Caucus.

He added, "This task force will take the lead in developing a balanced, comprehensive energy independence policy that protects consumers, encourages domestic production and preserves the environment." Matheson said, "We need a balanced solution that includes building more power plants, encouraging conservation and promoting research and development of the most promising technologies that are the key to our energy sustainability and independence in the future."

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Matheson said he would focus on the needs of families who are struggling to pay energy bills, which have increased up to 75 percent in the past year. Matheson added, "We didn't get in this (energy) predicament overnight and I am concerned that reacting to our energy problems in a knee-jerk fashion will only make things worse down the road."

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