Washington, DC (September 16, 2008)- The House of Representatives passed the Comprehensive American Energy Security and Consumer Protection Act (H.R.6899). While the bill itself is very wide-reaching, unfortunately the majority of its focus (and debate) has gotten caught up in the issue of off-shore drilling, an issue that has been shown to have little impact (immediate or long term) on our national energy use and needs. While the bill did pass the house, and now moves to the Senate to be voted on, President Bush has threatened to veto the bill.
Bill Status:
September 15, 2008- Introduced in House
September 16, 2008- Passed the House 236-189
November 17, 2008- Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar
Regardless of its unfortunate focus on drilling and its apparent doom by the hand of a presidential veto, the bill does include many positive provisions for urban forestry and energy efficiency. The bill also includes the GREEN Act of 2008, a bill sponsored by Rep. Perlmuttter (D-CO), a bill that ACT helped develop.
Related Resources:
H.R.6899- Comprehensive American Energy Security and Consumer Protection Act
Perlmutter Legislation Promotes Going Green To Save Green