President Obama’s decision to tap into the strategic petroleum reserve was quickly praised by both of New York’s Senators. Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand have been asking the president to open up the oil reserves for months now, as gas prices skyrocketed.

“The President has heeded our call to release oil from the strategic reserve. This can only help in combating the all-too-high price consumers face at the pump, and is a needed shot in the arm for our economy. We hope the President will continue to keep a watchful eye on the situation with oil prices, and if this dollop proves to be insufficient, will consider releasing more from the reserve,” Schumer said.

Senator Gillibrand said in a statement, “I applaud President Obama’s decision to release oil from the SPR. With our families already struggling in this difficult economy, the last thing we need is for gasoline prices to continue to skyrocket. This release will stabilize gas prices and provide crucial relief to families here in New York and across the country.”

Under the president’s plan, 30 million barrels will immediately be put into the market, and 60 million barrels will be tapped over the next few months. The decision was timed to provide some relief for the summer months, when demand spikes.

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