(Washington D.C.)  Congresswoman Cathy McMorris (WA-05) today was named Vice-Chair of the Resources Water and Power Subcommittee. As Vice-Chair, McMorris will assist Subcommittee Chairman George Radanovich (CA-19) in holding hearings and helping set the subcommittee’s agenda for the year.

“This position will enable me to work on important water and energy issues that are key to our region’s economy,” said McMorris. “In Eastern Washington our river systems play a large role in our economy and we depend on them for renewable energy, transportation, irrigation and recreation. It is time that we regain control of our waterways and develop a balanced approach that reflects both the needs of the environment and our economy.”

The Water and Power Subcommittee will focus on three main areas this year: developing more water, providing more power and reliable energy, and creating a more transparent energy system.

“I am confident that as Vice-Chair of the Water and Power Subcommittee, Representative McMorris will continue to show proven leadership on Resources issues,” said Resources Chairman Richard W. Pombo (R-CA). “Cathy has shown great determination and effectiveness during her short tenure on the Committee and I commend her dedication to providing vital water and electricity supplies to her constituents.”

“Cathy has worked tirelessly on behalf of Northwest electricity ratepayers and water users during the last year and her determination hasn’t gone unnoticed,” said Subcommittee Chairman George Radanovich (R-CA). “I look forward to working closely with her on our mission of developing and protecting our much-needed water and power infrastructure.”

McMorris, a member of the Resources Committee, also serves on the Forest and Forest Health Subcommittee. Last April McMorris was selected by Chairman Pombo to chair a taskforce on strengthening the National Environmental Policy Act.