Charles F. Bass

I want to thank you, Mr. Chairman, for having this hearing on what should be a commonsense component of our Nation's energy strategy, i.e., energy efficiency.

I think it is important to consider that in lieu of comprehensive tax reform, the importance of maintaining the production tax credit for renewable energy, which has been around now since 1992.

I applaud this Committee's work in trying to come up with a comprehensive plan for tax reform and simplification for this country.

It is important for, in addition to low regulation, low taxes, it is important to promote firstly the creation and growth of small businesses in this country.

We do not need the government to tell us how to succeed in manufacturing.

This is a unique opportunity, once again, to turn the direction of America away from runaway spending.

The committee should look at mechanisms that create incentives for Members of Congress to want to vote to reduce spending.

I believe that this committee has enormous challenges over the next month or two, but also enormous opportunities.