More Responses From My Favorite Senator Dick Durbin!

April 18, 2016

Mr. William Rosen

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Dear Mr. Rosen:

          Thank you for contacting me about the Energy Policy Modernization Act of 2015 (S. 2012).  I appreciate hearing from you.

          The bill, introduced by Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, would make significant changes to our national energy policy.  It contains several reforms increasing energy efficiency in buildings, appliances, manufacturing, and vehicles.  The bill would authorize energy efficiency grant programs for buildings, create energy efficiency standards for appliances, and encourage research into energy efficiency improvements for manufacturing and vehicles.  The bill would improve energy infrastructure by directing the Secretary of Energy to strengthen cybersecurity and energy grid security and authorize grants for fortifying the energy grid.  It also would direct the Secretary of Energy to review and optimize the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and require a final decision on applications for permit to export liquid natural gas within 45 days of the completion of the review process.  

          The bill would permanently reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF).  The LWCF provides funds for the conservation of important lands for recreation and protection of important national treasures.  The HPF provides funds for historic preservation in the United States.  The bill also would create the National Park Service Maintenance and Revitalization Conservation Fund to fund important maintenance needs in National Parks.

          Many people are concerned that this bill does not include wind and solar energy.  These and other renewable sources play an important role in reducing our nation's dependence on foreign oil, creating good jobs here in the United States and helping us protect our environment. 

          I will continue to support federal energy policies that focus on increasing energy efficiency and expanding the development of renewable energy.  Investment in energy efficiency and renewable energy generation will strengthen our national security, protect our environment, and create a wide range of new jobs here in the United States.

          The bill has been passed by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.  I will keep your concerns in mind as the Senate considers the Energy Policy Modernization Act.

          Thank you again for contacting me.  Please feel free to keep in touch.