U.S. Rep. Kirsten GillibrandSaying alternative fuels represent the new energy frontier, U.S. Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-20th District) is calling upon Congress to make the United States a leader in energy independence.

The Daily Freeman reports that Gillibrand is recommending that nearly $13 in billion in subsidies given to oil companies be redirected to the research and development of alternative fuel technologies that would make alternative energy more affordable. She also supports long-term tax cuts as an incentive for companies to invest in such technologies.

"America can be self-sustaining with energy produced in America," Gillibrand told business, municipal and community leaders at a meeting of the Northern Dutchess Alliance. "From a national security perspective, we have to move away from Middle Eastern oil. For economic security, we need a way to build jobs in this country."