Paul Tonko: “My amendment reauthorizes two existing programs, the Weatherization Assistance Program and the State Energy Program.…”

“My amendment reauthorizes two existing programs, the Weatherization Assistance Program and the State Energy Program. Both of these programs have been operating successfully for many years. The Federal dollars delivered through these programs leverage additional funding from our States and the private sector. These programs address real problems. They are effective, and they create and sustain jobs. As we heard during debate yesterday, H.R. 8 does very little to advance energy efficiency, an issue that has enjoyed strong, bipartisan support in the past. In fact, some provisions are more likely to be a setback to efficiency standards. While this bill contains plenty of benefits for energy suppliers, there is very little in there designed to address the needs of average Americans. The Weatherization Assistance Program supports State-based programs to improve the energy efficiency of the homes of low-income families. The Department of Energy provides grants to the States, United States territories, and tribal governments to deliver these services through local weatherization agencies. The weatherization measures used include air sealing, wall and attic insulation, duct sealing, and furnace repair and replacement. Mr. Chairman, the benefits of weatherization are well known and result in a reduced energy bill for many years into the future. Insulating our walls and our roofs, for example, can provide savings for the lifetime of a house.…”