Energy Independence

I believe that investing in technologies that waste less and extract more power from smaller amounts of energy can go a long way toward reducing the total amount of energy we consume and make us less reliant on foreign sources of oil.  Additionally, greater investment in research and development to increase the production of renewable forms of energy such as solar, wind, and biothermal sources will help us reinvigorate our economy and spur the creation of new jobs.

Legislation in the 111th Congress

H.R. 1 – The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Signed into law February 17, 2009)

Earlier this year, Congress passed and President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) into law.  I voted in favor of this critical legislation, which is an unprecedented effort to jumpstart our economy, create or save millions of jobs, and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so our country can thrive in the 21st century.

This bill also included several important steps to combat global climate change, including $2 billion for research into batteries for electric cars; $500 million to help workers train for “green jobs;” $11 billion to invest in “smart grids;” and several billion to modernize federal buildings with an emphasis on energy efficiency, among other incentives for renewable energy.  Additionally, the Act extends tax credits for producing electricity from renewable sources and repeals limitations on energy tax credits for those who use renewable energy sources.

H.R. 2751 - The Consumer Assistance to Recycle & Save (CARS) Act “Cash for Clunkers bill” (passed the House June 9, 2009)

The Consumer Assistance to Recycle & Save (CARS) Act, also known as the “Cash for Clunkers” bill, would provide up to $4,500 in rebates toward the purchase of new, more fuel efficient vehicles.  This legislation is particularly important for border communities such as El Paso where everyday thousands of vehicles are stalled at the international bridges for several hours.  This bill would not only reduce the amount of harmful emissions into our environment but would also decrease America’s dependence on foreign oil.  This legislation would benefit many local residents who need a little extra help during these difficult economic times.

The legislation would authorize $4 billion for a national voucher program to provide rebates on purchases of, or leases of up to five years on, new vehicles with higher fuel efficiency standards.  The new qualifying vehicles cannot be more than $45,000 and must get at least 22 miles per gallon (mpg) for passenger vehicles, 18 mpg for light duty trucks, and 15 mpg for work trucks.  Vouchers would range in value from $3,500 to $4,500 depending on the level of fuel efficiency.