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Today, the House passed H.R. 3826, the Electricity Security and Affordability Act, which included an amendment sponsored by Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green). The legislation, of which Latta is an original co-sponsor, offers a reasonable alternative to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed greenhouse gas standards for new power plants and the agency’s planned regulations for existing power plants. 

“This Administration is working day and night to eliminate the use of coal in this country,” said Latta. “In places like my home state of Ohio where approximately 78 percent of our energy comes from coal, the result will be higher electric bills for families and seniors already dealing with increased healthcare costs as a result of Obamacare. The Electricity Security and Affordability Act is just one step to ensuring coal remains part of America’s energy mix and that the Administration pursues energy policies that encourage a diverse and affordable electricity portfolio.” 

Congressman Latta’s amendment clarifies that the “demonstration projects” included in the legislation are projects that have received federal government funding or assistance. Clarifying this component is critical to the larger debate, especially the provisions of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 that apply to the EPA’s proposed standards for new plants armed at preventing the premature mandating of technologies that are not commercially viable. This amendment comes after concerns that “demonstration projects” referenced in the legislation could be interpreted as any projects receiving public assistance, including local tax assistance. 

VIDEO: Latta Offers Amendment to Electricity Security and Affordability Act on House Floor 

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