Sánchez Helps Pass Home Improvement Rebates

Press Release

The bill passed the House by a vote of 246-161.

"This bill will put American workers on jobs installing Made-in-America technology in our homes," said Rep. Linda Sánchez. "This package of rebates will help our economy grow by creating more than 150,000 American jobs in industries that were crushed by the Bush economic crisis including those in construction, manufacturing and retail. Also, by using less energy, we can reduce our dependence on foreign oil by as many as 7 million barrels a year."

Home Star provides two types of rebates:

* Silver Star -- providing up-front rebates for specific energy-saving investments, including insulation, duct sealing, windows and doors, air sealing and water heaters at the time of sale. Homeowners receive up to $1,500 per improvement, with a rebate of up to $3,000 or 50 percent of the total project cost.

* Gold Star -- rewarding homeowners who conduct a comprehensive energy audit and implement measures to reduce energy use, backed by a quality assurance program. Consumers receive $3,000 for a demonstrated savings of 20 percent, plus an additional $1,000 for each additional 5 percent energy savings up to $8,000 -- capped at 50 percent of the project cost.

This legislation builds on our previous accomplishments, including the tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements created 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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