Hon. Michael G. Oxley: “I rise in support of H.R. 6--the ``Energy Policy Act of 2003.'' This bill contains several provisions that are under the…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 6--the ``Energy Policy Act of 2003.'' This bill contains several provisions that are under the jurisdiction of the Financial Services Committee and are identical to agreements between the House and Senate Conferees last year when considering the energy bill before the 107th Congress-- H.R. 4. These provisions are non-controversial and reflect last year's bipartisan and bicameral support. Division G, sections 70001 through 70010 include measures that will enhance energy efficiency in the housing arena as well as promote the idea that our country's representatives on the Board of Directors of the North American Development Bank encourage energy efficiency and conservations. Specifically, the housing provisions would allow funding to non- profit organizations, including community development corporations and local cooperative associations, to promote activities relating to energy efficient, affordable housing and residential energy conservation measures that benefit low-income families. Other measures include increasing the public services cap by ten percent to allow eligible communities and states to use Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to pursue energy conservation and efficiency.”