House Republican Press Release

May 31, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. RYAN DISMAYED WITH REJECTION BY DEMOCRATS OF ENERGY SAVINGS PLAN

HARTFORD – With the only Democratic action being inaction for two years on any energy bill to aid ratepayers, House Republicans tonight put forth a compromise amendment on the floor of the House to provide consumer relief through efficiencies and conservation and changes in electrical generation.

The Democratic-controlled House at 9:15 p.m. blocked debate through a parliamentary procedure that killed the amendment on a near party line 101-45 vote. Meanwhile, Democrats met behind closed doors.  

The House Republicans alternative includes numerous areas of nearly universal agreement even as Democratic leaders continued to squabble behind closed doors in an attempt to revive competing versions of the so far failed year-long effort to arrive at a meaningful compromise.

Rep. Ryan said, “Our proposal provides much needed relief to residents now. What does the Democratic supermajority does not understand is that wrangling and a lack of leadership on such an important state issue while consumers and businesses continue to struggle with out of control costs.” 

One of the Republican alternative measures in the amendment highlights areas of broad agreement in both the competing House and Senate bills that have been circulating around the Capitol for months and could be approved immediately in both chambers:

Conservation:

• Restore previously raided conservation funds;
• Offer an air conditioner/ furnace replacement program;
• Expand “Green Buildings’’ program for state projects.

Generation:

• Require planning to determine current and future generation needs;
• Increase required renewable portfolio standards for clean energy and expand Class III renewable credits;
• Require municipal utilities to promote renewable energy.

 Energy Taxes:

• Make permanent tax exemptions for weatherization products as well compact fluorescent lights and create property and sales tax exemptions for hybrid vehicles and those with 40 mpg ratings.