Introducing the REBATE Act: Empowering Local Governments for Energy Efficiency
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a move to address rising energy costs and promote sustainable living, a group of representatives including Kathy Castor, Darren Soto, Lois Frankel, Maxwell Alejandro Frost, and Jenniffer González Colón have introduced a groundbreaking bill. Known as H.R.6536, the Reforming Energy-Efficient Buildings and Appliances Tax Exemptions (REBATE) Act, this legislation aims to allow local governments to access federal grants for implementing high-efficiency electric home rebate programs.
Unlocking Energy Savings for Floridians
Floridians have been burdened with high electricity costs, and the recent veto of energy rebates by Governor DeSantis has only worsened the situation. However, there is hope for lower energy bills and increased affordability. The REBATE Act grants local governments the power to receive and execute energy rebates and discounts within their communities. By emulating successful programs in other states, Floridians can enjoy the benefits of weatherized homes and energy-efficient appliances.
“Floridians are being gouged by electric utilities in Florida, and Governor DeSantis’s veto of energy rebates has made it even more expensive for Florida families. Floridians could enjoy lower energy bills if we can unlock the resources to weatherize homes and purchase energy-efficient appliances as the residents of other states are enjoying right now,” said Rep. Castor.
“To put money back into the pockets of our neighbors, the REBATE Act enables local governments to receive and implement energy rebates and discounts in their communities. Democrats in Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act to provide energy cost savings to our neighbors. The REBATE Act would deliver those savings and avoid the higher costs imposed by Gov. DeSantis. Lower electric bills, new energy-efficient appliances and less pollution in the Sunshine State – a win, win, win.”
Promoting clean energy Transition
Representative Soto, a strong advocate for clean energy, expressed his enthusiasm for the REBATE Act. He highlighted the importance of bipartisan measures like the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in benefiting working families and securing a better future for generations to come. The REBATE Act ensures that Florida families have unhindered access to these vital programs.
“I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan REBATE Act to allow Florida families access to programs that provide tax incentives if they transition to clean energy,” said Rep. Soto.
Unlocking Savings and Reducing Carbon Footprints
Representative Frankel emphasized the significant savings and environmental benefits that the Inflation Reduction Act has brought to millions of Americans. The REBATE Act extends these advantages to Florida communities, providing them access to approximately $346 million in savings. Families can now lower their energy costs while also reducing their carbon footprints.
“The Inflation Reduction Act has provided millions of Americans with the opportunity to save money on energy-efficient appliances and home upgrades,” said Rep. Frankel. “This bill would allow Florida communities to access the nearly $346 million in savings available to our state, helping families lower their energy costs and their carbon footprints.”
Unlocking Federal Funds for Floridians
Earlier this year, due to a budget veto by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida’s Office of Energy had to withdraw their application for rebate programs, leaving behind $346 million in eligible federal funds. However, with the implementation of the REBATE Act, families in the state will now have the opportunity to receive tax incentives when they upgrade their homes with energy-efficient appliances and make the transition to clean energy.
For the full text of the bill, please click here.
Read More of this Story at castor.house.gov – 2023-12-01 17:07:49
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