On the recordDecember 12, 2012
I rise today to highlight the critical importance of extending the Production Tax Credit for wind energy, which expires this month. The Production Tax Credit is essential for energy independence, the environment, and public health; and it is critical for job creation and our economy. The Production Tax Credit has helped to create good-paying jobs across the country, including 7,000 in my home State of Illinois. Because of uncertainty, the wind industry is hurting and job losses have already begun. The failure to extend the Production Tax Credit will result in the loss of 37,000 of the 78,000 American wind jobs. Those are not just numbers on a sheet of paper; they represent people and families and communities. This is not a partisan issue. Eighty-nine percent of Americans, including 84 percent of Republicans, want more wind power. We must act to extend the Production Tax Credit for wind without delay. The American people can't wait any longer. ____________________
