Renewable Energy Project Siting Improvement Act of 2004

RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT SITING IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2004 -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 18, 2004)

SPEECH OF
HON. BETTY McCOLLUM
OF MINNESOTA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
TUESDAY, JUNE 15, 2004

Ms. MCCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to legislation that would significantly weaken the National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA.

The bill on the floor today exempts any federal agency from considering alternatives when assessing the environmental impact of renewable energy projects. It eliminates input from local communities, states and the public.

I strongly support wind, solar and other clean, renewable energy projects. They are critical to our clean energy future.

I have cosponsored legislation that permanently extends the wind energy tax credit. This tax credit will spur additional windmill development in Minnesota.

I have cosponsored legislation that increases the use of biodiesel and ethanol. Minnesota is a national leader in producing these renewable fuels.

The Republican leadership, however, isn't allowing these bills to be considered today.

Renewable energy projects can adversely impact our environment and public health if not designed and operated properly. We have rules that ensure that all energy projects on public lands are subject to a full environmental and public health review required by NEPA.

Congress must recognize the renewable energy development is key to our energy future. We must not pass legislation that fails to ensure that environmentally important renewable energy development occurs in a timely manner, in the right locations, is subject to the terms that fully protect the public interest and that there is ample public input.

I urge my colleagues to oppose this bill today.