By Dana Bash

WASHINGTON (CNN) — Most American taxpayers would get $100 rebate checks to offset the pain of higher pump prices for gasoline, under an amendment Senate Republicans hope to bring to a vote soon.

However, the GOP energy package may face tough sledding because it also includes a controversial proposal to open part of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska to oil exploration, which most Democrats and some moderate Republicans oppose.

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“Our plan would give taxpayers a hundred dollar gas tax holiday rebate check to help ease the pain that they’re feeling at the pump,” Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist announced Thursday.

“It also includes strong federal anti-price gouging protection to protect consumers against anti-competitive behavior by oil companies or other suppliers of gasoline. Our free market system works, but it works best when there’s full accountability and full transparency.”

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It is said democratic nations don’t last because at some point, the people will discover they can vote themselves money out of the public treasury. Though this country is not a democracy, it seems politicians are attempting to win our hearts by bribing us with one time rebate checks.

Not only is this plan absurd, it also does not make sense. Instead of doing the logical thing like cut regulation, pass legislation to drill in ANWR and build new refineries, or ease gas taxes, our government seems to think the American people will be pleased with a $100 for gas - a one time deal.

Real reform must be sought and fought for in Congress by bringing back market incentives to the oil industry, instead of tying it down with needless regulation. Though a large portion of the blame for high gas prices go to supply and demand, government can and should promote a free market when it comes to our oil supply.