On the recordJune 19, 2012
I rise to oppose this amendment. I appreciate the interest and concern of the Senator from Tennessee. Let me just say that this amendment would cut off access for farmers and small businesses that are looking to develop wind energy projects that will create jobs. I have to say, as someone coming from Michigan, when I look at one of those big wind turbines, I see 8,000 parts, and every single one of them can be made in Michigan or across the country--we would prefer Michigan. But the reality is this is about jobs. We are in the middle of a global clean energy race with countries such as China, and this is about giving our businesses a leg up to be able to win that race. Frankly, it is about getting us off of foreign oil. This is one way to do that and to create jobs. Since 2005, wind energy companies have contributed more than $60 billion to the economy, with over 400 facilities in 43 States. It is about jobs. It is about manufacturing. I would urge a ``no'' vote.
