TMCnet News
Rep. Towns Votes to Boost the Economy, Innovation in Energy TechnologyJul 20, 2009 (Congressional Documents and Publications/ContentWorks via COMTEX) -- WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Edolphus "Ed" Towns (NY-10) today voted to boost job creation and provide real solutions to our energy and water quality needs with investments in new technologies, scientific research and conservation efforts. The Energy and Water Appropriations Act, which passed the House by a vote of 320 to 97, builds on the investments in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to move toward American energy independence and rebuild our infrastructure - major tenets of the long-term economic plan that President Obama laid out and this Congress approved. "I was proud to support the Energy and Water Appropriations Act because it makes sound investments in new technologies that will reduce our dependence on foreign oil, create jobs, and boost our economy," said Rep. Towns. "Our economic recovery depends on acting swiftly, and with this bill the House continues to pass its appropriations bills on time and under budget." The Energy and Water Appropriations Act invests in new technologies that will create the next generation of vehicles with improved fuel efficiency, better and cleaner engines and better batteries. It also helps modernize our electric grid by investing in "smart grid" technology that will ensure efficient and reliable delivery of electricity to American homes and businesses. The bill increases funds for weatherization grants to help struggling families improve their homes' energy efficiency and save hundreds of dollars annually in electricity and heating costs. It also invests in the water infrastructure needs of our communities to improve water quality and spur economic development after years of neglect. "At the same time as we make these investments, we are looking closely at every line of our budget to eliminate and cut programs that aren't working in order to reduce the deficit and put us on a path toward fiscal responsibility," said Rep. Towns. "The 111th Congress working to turn our country around for those hardest hit by the economic crisis, and we will continue to implement many of the long-term solutions that will grow our economy for years to come." #DAL1234# |