Oil Drilling in Alaska a Realistic Possibility

It is becoming increasingly likely that the US government is going to begin oil exploration in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska. A Bill is being put forward by Republicans that will allow the process to begin. The sweetener?? A $100 tax rebate for single tax payers of $125,000 per year and couples earning less than $150,000. This is a blatant attempt to try to get the Democrats onboard. They wouldn't want to be seen to be hurting those who most need a rebate from the high gas prices would they?? The true cost of supporting such action in Alaska will, of course, never be quantified. The final cost to the environment would undoubtedly equate to far more than $100 for everyone eligible for these tax rebates. Unfortunately, the strength of the oil industry is the government's only serious concern. After all, they wouldn't want to upset their sponsors, would they?