Washington  - Representative Thaddeus G. McCotter (R-Livonia) cast a vote today in favor of historic energy legislation which includes several measures which will have an impact on the residents of southeast Michigan, including energy efficiency, alternative fuel cell production and job creation. 
 
“This significant energy vote falls at a critical time for our nation,” said McCotter.  “It represents a commitment to reducing our dependence on the unpredictable Middle East region for oil with a renewed focus on domestic energy production, conservation and efficiency.”   

 

H.R. 6, The Energy Policy Act of 2003 Conference Report passed the House today as the final agreement between the House and Senate. 

 

The energy bill includes a list of measures which will directly and indirectly increase employment numbers and protect existing jobs.  Through the construction, manufacturing, agriculture and technology sectors of the economy, the bill is expected to create nearly 1 million jobs. 

 

Specifically, the energy bill authorizes $200 million for an advanced vehicle program which would operate under the current Department of Energy “Clean Cities” program.  Under this program, grants will be provided to states and local governments to develop alternative fueled and fuel cell vehicles and hybrid vehicles, creating new jobs for the automobile industry.

 

The bill authorizes $3.4 billion for each fiscal year through 2004 and 2006 for the Low Income Housing Assistance Program (LIHEAP), making heat and cool air more affordable for those in need during the most extreme weather conditions. 

 

Clean energy sources were also a primary focus of the bill which provides funding for the Department of Energy’s fossil program for existing and new coal based research and development along with the establishment of a national center for clean power and energy research.