Americans have watched oil and energy prices soar to new highs, while they struggle to pay for gas to get to work and to heat their houses during the winter.  At the same time, there is growing evidence of the damage done by the continued use of fossil fuels.  I’m pleased to let you know that the Senate recently passed an energy tax incentive package to address these soaring prices and to provide cleaner and more secure sources of energy.

The energy package overwhelmingly passed the Senate as an amendment to H.R.3221, the Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008.  I strongly supported this amendment, which would provide or extend incentives for companies and individuals to develop and use alternative and renewable energy technologies.  It includes incentives to boost production of wind energy, solar energy, and cellulosic ethanol.  The amendment also contains incentives to build energy-efficient homes, use energy-efficient technologies in existing homes, install energy-efficient appliances, and purchase hybrid cars. 

The Senate’s energy tax incentive package makes sense for consumers, for our environment, and for our economy.  In fact, it is anticipated that, if these tax incentives are lost, as many as 100,000 jobs in these industries could also be lost, including 23,000 jobs in California alone.  

This legislation is an important step in the ongoing effort to lead America away from our dangerous dependence on oil.  Be assured that I will do all I can to ensure that the energy tax incentive package passes Congress and is signed into law either as part of H.R.3221 or as a stand-alone bill.  If you are interested in learning more details about this legislation, please use this link.

Sincerely,

Barbara Boxer
United States Senator