Oil Exports and Jobs

* Michael Parrish correctly states the economic opportunities awaiting the U.S. by lifting the ban on the export of Alaskan crude (“Study Sees 25,000 Oil Jobs If Alaska Export Ban Ends,” July 1). An additional benefit not mentioned is the reduction in our dependency on foreign oil. By allowing the export of Alaskan crude we can effectively reduce the amount of oil imported. The fear of higher oil prices due to the introduction of the higher-quality oil is irrational if we consider the price we will ultimately pay for our dependency on foreign oil. Just recall the 1973 oil embargo and the prices we were paying at the pump during the Gulf War. The boost the American economy (and particularly California’s) can get from lifting the ban is well worth the consequences.

NITZAN MATZKEVICH

Fullerton