Rep. Engel Votes To Create Jobs, Reduce Dependence On Foreign Oil

Press Release

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) voted to boost the American clean energy economy by creating nearly 170,000 jobs, reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and saving American families $9 billion over 10 years. The Home Star Jobs Bill would provide rebates to homeowners who install energy-saving products and reduce energy use in their homes. The bill passed the House by a vote of 246-161, and now awaits approval by the Senate. Rep. Engel's remarks can be viewed here - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KF7IayWLQr0

"With too many Americans unemployed or underemployed, our nation needs a bold effort to create jobs and to improve the economy. With President Obama's guidance, we have achieved some important successes. We have prevented the financial system from collapsing, saved America's auto industry from extinction, avoided a depression, and overhauled our failing health care system," said Rep. Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. "Our work is not done. Americans, and in particular middle class Americans, are still hurting. We must remain focused on revitalizing our economy."

The bill features two levels of rebates that will help an estimated three million American homeowners. The Silver Star program would provide up-front rebates of up to $3,000 for the installation of proven energy-saving technologies, such as insulation, duct sealing, window and door improvements, air sealing, and advanced water heaters. The Gold Star program rewards homeowners with up to $8,000 for conducting a comprehensive energy audit and substantially reducing their energy use at home.

This bill would boost our construction and manufacturing industries in the short term by creating jobs immediately. More than 90% of the materials and products used in eligible measures are made in the U.S. In the long run, it will help rebuild the foundation of our economy by encouraging American innovation and entrepreneurship in the growing clean energy industry.

"A smart and effective way to generate jobs, I believe, is through home retrofits. We can incentivize consumers to weatherize their homes, and thus put our idled contractors and construction workers to work. In turn, many households would save substantial money -- not to mention help the climate -- by weatherizing their homes," added Rep. Engel.

This legislation builds on our previous accomplishments offering tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements in the Recovery Act. Through the end of 2010, homeowners can receive a tax credit for 30 percent of the cost of these improvements, up to $1,500. More information is available at http://www.energysavers.gov/financial

The Home Star Energy Retrofit Act has received bipartisan support, and has been endorsed by a broad range of business, labor, environmental, and consumer groups, including the National Association of Manufacturers, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the National Association of Home Builders.

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