One possible benefit of the proposal is that it could lessen United States dependence on foreign oil, which has been seen as a threat to national security.

“B’nai B’rith feels that a comprehensive energy agenda that relieves the U.S. from dependence on foreign oil is vital to our nation’s well-being,” said BBI Executive Vice President Daniel S. Mariaschin. “By sending our money to countries that are not necessarily our closest allies and who may harbor threats to national security, we are in a sense feeding the enemy. It is imperative that we find a way to create our own energy resources.”

Though the regulations could raise the cost of the average automobile by an estimated $1,300, the positive impact these stipulations could have toward lowering the presence of greenhouse gasses – a main cause of climate change – is immeasurable.

B’nai B’rith International has already spearheaded several “green” efforts, including a seminar in Florida titled “Going Green Without Much Green” and a recycling program at the B’nai B’rith Homecrest House in Maryland.

“B’nai B’rith has supported the development, marketing, and production of ‘green’ technologies for some time now,” said B’nai B’rith President Moishe Smith, who also serves as a senior director of Energy Alternatives for the 21st Century. “We will continue to stand as advocates for fuel-efficient or alternatively fueled vehicles in order to help move technology along toward a more sustainable state.”