To the editor:

At a time when America’s dependence on oil is a primary national security concern, why is the fuel economy of my car based on an outdated standard passed almost 30 years ago? The time has come for American automakers to stop resisting higher fuel economy standards. Detroit’s profits are important, but not as important as the security of this country.

Since automakers are resisting new fuel economy standards, our senators must lead us toward energy independence by supporting legislation sponsored by Sens. Kerry (D.-Mass.) and Hollings (D-S.C.) that will make cars go farther on a gallon of gas. We need an energy bill that secures our energy future while protecting our precious public lands, including the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. By making America’s cars and SUVs more fuel efficient, and using more renewable energy like wind and solar power, we can create more jobs and reduce our dependence on oil.

George Diepenbrock,

Lawrence