By Robert Pore
robert.pore@theindependent.com

Regular unleaded gas soared to more than $3.40 per gallon today in Grand Island, and diesel fuel prices set another record high at $4.09 per gallon.

U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith, R-Neb., said that, with crude oil hitting a record $115 per barrel, Congress has fallen short on developing an energy policy that addresses this country's dependency on foreign oil.

"That (energy prices) is affecting our economy more than the housing slowdown and other things because energy issues touch everyone," Smith said. "I realize that we need to achieve energy independence. But, when I say energy independence, I think we need all sources of energy."

Smith said America continues to be bogged down on how energy independence can be achieved because of distractions about America's energy portfolio that cause the lack of a clear, decisive policy.

"I think we get distracted by too many things when it comes to the energy debate, and hopefully we can move on with the expansion of hydro, nuclear, wind, solar power and so many things that I think we fall short on right now," Smith said.

But Smith said moving away from this country's addiction to oil will take time.

"We need to recognize the economic reality that exists because of our oil dependency," he said.