Tester: Energy efficiency not a partisan issue

Senator blames politics for blocking bipartisan Shaheen-Portman bill

(U.S. SENATE) – Senator Jon Tester today released the following statement after the bipartisan Energy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act – commonly known as the Shaheen-Portman energy efficiency bill – failed to receive enough Senate votes to be considered for final passage:

“Making America more energy efficient is something everyone agrees on. Folks on both sides of the aisle want to save businesses and consumers money, make America more energy independent and reduce emissions. But once again, a common-sense piece of legislation fell victim to politics. I remain optimistic that Congress can – and will – do better.”

The bill was blocked by Republicans in a debate over amendments – not the substance of the bill. The measure, supported by Democrats and Republicans, includes a variety of initiatives to encourage businesses to make buildings more energy efficient, help manufacturers reduce energy use and require the federal government to adopt energy saving techniques.

Tester filed his bipartisan Public Land Renewable Energy Development Act as an amendment to the bill. Tester’s measure streamlines permitting for renewable energy projects on public lands.