Wilson Supports Bingaman Domenici Energy Bill, Opposes House Bills

Press Release

Wilson Supports Bingaman Domenici Energy Bill, Opposes House Bills

Rep. Heather Wilson today voted against two House Energy measures that she says fall short of providing Americans any meaningful energy security. Wilson says both Energy bills voted on in the House today, H.R. 2776 and H.R. 3221, fail to deliver American consumers or businesses more energy security. Wilson has offered Energy legislation of her own, and today also supported an amendment by fellow New Mexican Tom Udall that mirrors key portions of her own legislation.

The New Mexico lawmaker, who represents an energy-producing state, says both House Energy proposals considered today would lead to less domestic oil and gas production, higher energy costs, and higher taxes.

"We need a balanced, long term energy policy to make America more energy independent and preserve the beauty of the land we love," said Wilson. "That includes encouraging wind, solar and biomass energy development, along with conservation and exploration."

Wilson in late June introduced the Energy Savings Act of 2007, which is comprehensive renewable energy and energy efficiency legislation. Her proposal would strengthen automobile mileage standards and create a 15 percent Renewable Portfolio Standard.

Wilson's proposed renewable portfolio standard is similar to that proposed by Senator Jeff Bingaman, chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. It would require that 15 percent of electricity be generated from renewable resources, without affecting Co-ops.

Wilson's bill is identical to the legislation passed by the Senate by a vote of 65-27 and includes:

* Increases in CAFE standards for cars and light trucks to 35 miles per gallon by 2020.
* New renewable fuel mandates with an emphasis on ethanol, increasing substitutes for gasoline from 8.5 billion barrels in 2008 to 36 billion in 2022.
* New renewable fuels portfolio standards for electricity generation of 15 percent by 2020 except for cooperatives.
* Up to $120 million in investment in research and development on carbon sequestration.
* Promotion of energy efficiency, starting with the federal government.

Udall Amendment

Wilson today supported an amendment by Rep. Tom Udall that includes the same 15 per cent Renewable Electricity Standard that Wilson has pushed.

Wilson says the new 15 percent standard will promote public and private development of these energy sources, and hold down natural gas prices. The bill invests in renewable technologies and provides payments to rural landowners.

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