Alan Simpson: “We have now seen amendments to put more money into the EERE and amendments to take money out of the EERE and now an…”

“We have now seen amendments to put more money into the EERE and amendments to take money out of the EERE and now an amendment to eliminate the EERE. I have to rise in opposition to this amendment. This bill supports an all-of-the-above approach to utilize our abundant natural resources and advance energy in new technologies to increase our energy security. A part of that approach includes strategic investments in the EERE accounts. I agree that there are many activities in this program that could use a closer and more critical look. That is why this bill focuses funding on basic technological research and manufacturing advancements in this account. The bill reduces the EERE by $266 million over last year's level, but this amendment, I believe, would go too far. I must support the strategic balance of this bill. Therefore, I must oppose my colleague's amendment, and I urge others to do the same. I yield to the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur).”