On the recordFebruary 15, 2011
The Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy program supports technology, research, and development to keep America competitive and ensure our access to domestic energy sources. While these are critically important goals, so too is meeting our pledge to substantially reduce the Nation's deficit beginning this year. Our bill cuts energy efficiency and renewable energy 35 percent below the current level and 38 percent, or $888 million, below the President's fiscal year 2011 budget request. The bill limits funding for programs that are still supported by unspent Recovery Act dollars. It also eliminates earmarks and slims down research programs by more than $500 million while preserving core activities supporting American competitiveness in emerging energy industries. After these cuts, there is simply no more fat to trim. Cutting the program would cost excessive job losses and defaults on past commitments. While I support the gentleman's efforts to further reduce spending, this amendment would go too far beyond the careful balance that we have crafted in this bill. I and the committee fully intend to exert unprecedented oversight of this program. So as we move forward, I would be happy to work with the gentleman as we do; however, I must regret that I oppose his amendment.
