Washington, D.C. -- The U.S. House today voted 235-181 to approve the Energy Independence and Security Act, a package of legislation aimed at reducing America’s dependence on foreign oil and taking some initial steps to reduce global warming. One of the most important provisions of the measure will require cars to be 40% more fuel efficient by 2020.

“This will mean real savings for people in Hawaii. We’ve seen the price of a gallon of regular gas go from $1.78 in 2001 to an average $3.45 a gallon today,” said Rep. Abercrombie. “Under this legislation, Hawaii families would save between $700 and $1000 a year at the pump.”

Additionally, the legislation mandates more energy efficient home appliances, from dishwashers to refrigerators and lighting.  And, it provides assistance to those who want to make their homes and small businesses more energy efficient, with tax credits and incentives for conservation, such as solar panels for water heating or the purchase of electric and hybrid vehicles.  

“Washington has let energy companies and foreign governments call the shots on our energy policy for years,” Abercrombie said.  “And for the last six years, our attempts to change direction have been stalled by the Bush Administration and Congressional Republicans.  In fact, President Bush has threatened to veto this bill because he doesn’t like the increase in vehicle fuel standards.  We hope he will reconsider his narrow views and respect the broad support for this legislation from across the political spectrum.”

(A list of organizations supporting the Energy Independence and Security Act is attached)

BUSINESS
Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers
American Solar Energy Society
American Wind Energy Association
Ceres – Investors and Environmentalists for sustained prosperity
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Information Technology Industry Council (ITI)
National Venture Capitol Association
PG & E
Solar Alliance
Solar Electric Power Association
Solar Energy Industries Association
Solar Nation
Southern Alliance for Clean Energy
TechNet
The Vote Solar Initiative

FARM GROUPS AND RENEWABLE FUEL STAKEHOLDERS
American Farm Bureau Federation
American Coalition for Ethenol
National Association of Wheat Growers
National Bio Diesel Board
National Corn Growers Association
National Farmers Union
National Grain Sorghum Producers
National Resources Defense Council
Renewable Fuel Association

LABOR
AFL-CIO
International Union of Operating Engineers; United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners
National Construction Alliance: Laborers’ International Union of North America, United Auto Workers, United Steel Workers

ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS
Alaska Wilderness League
Alliance to Save Energy
Audubon
Defenders of Wildlife       
Earthjustice     
Environment America       
Environmental Defense    
League of Conservation Voters
National Environmental Trust
National Tribal Environmental Council
National Wildlife Federation
Northern Alaska Environmental Center
Sierra Club
Southern Environmental Law Center
The Wilderness Society
Union of Concerned Scientists

-30-