[thackney]

Would you read post 24?

Do you honestly believe our oil producers work at below market rates already, and would continue to invest more dollars in a market that pays below market returns?

[jpsb]

When you say market you mean global prices right? The USA is also a market and I am sure oil producers are profitable in the US Market. They'd like to be able to sell in the global market where prices are higher. I get that. However oil is not a renewable resource and every barrel we sell overseas is one less barrel we have. It is crazy to export something vital, that can not be renewed, that we import huge amounts of.

The ban was put in place during the oil embargo back in the 70's. It's purpose was to preserve American oil for Americans. That purpose is just as valid today as it was back in the 70's.