Tom Latham: “I have been and remain concerned about the funding level for the renewable energy program. The bill before us today…”

“I have been and remain concerned about the funding level for the renewable energy program. The bill before us today funds this program at $15 million; and even though this funding level is a $4.2 million increase above the budget request, it is $8 million below the fiscal year 2004 funding level. This program is important to Iowa and the whole country, particularly in the wind and biomass areas, because it makes grants available to rural, small businesses, agricultural producers and others who purchase renewable energy systems or make energy improvements. This program has the potential to improve rural living standards and economic opportunities and to create jobs. In short, there is a significant value-added component for rural areas that comes with this program.”