Seemingly aimed at preventing a similar accident, these proposals--a six-month moratorium, unlimited liability and tax increases--will do nothing to promote offshore drilling safety. Instead, they could threaten hundreds of thousands of U.S. jobs, cost billions in government revenue and royalties, and limit a major part of the nation's energy lifeline.

When asked recently about the most important issue for the federal government to address, people emphatically responded, "jobs" and "the economy." So why are policymakers ignoring what people want?

As I mentioned in an op-ed this week, most Americans understand that this industry--with its focus on the spill, safe operations, job creation and economic recovery--is not our economy's enemy. They know that energy development is a primary driver of job creation. That's why voters in 10 key states oppose higher taxes on America's oil and natural gas industry by a 2-to-1 margin.

Safety improvements are possible without risking jobs. Working together, the industry and government are making progress toward establishing a safer offshore operating environment. But with 15 million people out of work, proposals in Washington should protect taxpayers and advance our country's energy and economic interests, not penalize the oil and natural gas industry.

We must let common sense prevail over short-sighted efforts to use the spill as an excuse to punish oil and natural gas companies--and ultimately hard-working Americans. We are doing our part. And we urge our leaders in Washington to as well.

Editors note: Jack Gerard sent this message yesterday to individuals signed up to receive Energy Tomorrow e-mail communications. Click here to sign up for Energy Tomorrow updates and stay informed about important energy issues.