U.S. Climate Legislation Tracker

The Climate Legislation Tracker project tracks federal legislation related to climate change.  As presented here, it is current through July 2011.  Given the limited current prospects for major federal climate legislation, we are focusing our efforts on tracking relevant regulations and progress on Obama’s climate agenda.


 Legislation Tracker – 112th Congress (2011-2012)

H.R.1023 – No More Excuses Energy Act of 2011 – Specifies that the term “air pollutant” in Section 302(g) of the Clean Air Act (“CAA”) does not include “carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, or sulfur hexafluoride.’’  It also states that nothing in the CAA shall be interpreted as “authorizing or requiring the regulation of climate change or global warming.”  In addition, this bill includes, among other things, tax benefits for both conventional and clean energy technologies and a requirement to authorize new oil and gas development projects on the coastal plain of Alaska. [H.R. 1023]

  • On March 10, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On March 10, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources.
  • On March 10, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.
  • On March 10, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On March 14, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.
  • On March 15, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources.

H.R.910 – *Energy Tax Prevention Act of 2011 – Prohibits the EPA from promulgating any regulation or taking any action related to (or that takes into consideration) the emission of a greenhouse gas to address climate change.  A greenhouse gas is defined in this bill as water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, sulfur hexafluoride, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons or “any other substance subject to, or proposed to be subject to, regulation, action, or consideration under this Act to address climate change.”  This bill indicates that the term “air pollutant” in Section 302(g) of the CAA does not include a greenhouse gas.  However, any such definition may include a greenhouse gas for the purpose of addressing concerns other than climate change.  In addition, this bill states that (1) certain prior EPA rules and actions intended to regulate greenhouse gases emission are, as result of this bill, repealed and shall have no legal effect; and (2) provisions of state implementation plans that designate greenhouse gases as pollutants or require limitations on their emissions shall not be federally enforceable and shall be deemed removed from such plans.  H.R. 910]

H.R.750 – Defending America’s Affordable Energy and Jobs Act – Prohibits the President or the head of  a Federal agency from (1) promulgating a regulation and/or enforcing or implementing any law whose aim, at least in part, is to control the emission of a greenhouse gas (which is defined in this bill as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, sulfur hexafluoride, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbon, nitrogen trifluoride or “any other substance subject to regulation, action, or consideration due to the contribution of the substance to climate change.”); (2) taking an action related to the climate effects of emissions of a greenhouse gas; or (3) considering climate effects in the implementation or enforcement of any law or regulation or condition any denial or approval based on climate effects.  However, this bill contains an exception from the foregoing for “protect[ing] the public health from imminent and substantial harm.”  In addition, this bill states that (1) certain prior EPA rules intended to regulate atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases shall, as result of this bill, have no force or effect; and (2) provisions of State implementation plans that designate greenhouse gases as pollutants or require limitations on their emissions shall not be federally enforceable and shall be deemed removed from such plan.  This bill also preempt any legal claim that may be brought or maintained based upon any potential or actual contribution of a greenhouse gas to climate change or any effect of atmospheric concentrations of a greenhouse gas. [H.R. 750]

  • On February 16, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On February 16, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On February 28, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

H.R.279 – Prohibits any Federal agency or official, in carrying out any action to reduce the effects of greenhouse gas emissions on climate change, from imposing a fee or tax on gaseous emissions emitted directly by livestock. [H.R. 279]

  • On January 12, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On January 12, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. On January 12, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.
  • On February 1, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

H.R.199 – Protect America’s Energy and Manufacturing Jobs Act of 2011 – Institutes a 2 year moratorium on EPA taking any action under the CAA with “respect to any stationary source permitting requirement” under Section 111 of the CAA that relates to carbon dioxide or methane.  In addition, this bill states that any action taken by the EPA prior to the expiration of the moratorium, including actions taken prior to enactment, shall be considered to “make carbon dioxide or methane a pollutant subject to regulation” under the CAA other than from new motor vehicles or new motor vehicle engines, as described in Section 202(a) of the CAA. [H.R. 199]

  • On January 6, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On January 6, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On February 1, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

H.R.97 – Free Industry Act – Prevents the EPA from regulating greenhouse gases under the CAA.  In addition, it specifies that the term “air pollutant” in Section 302(g) of the CAA does not include “carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, or sulfur hexafluoride.” [H.R. 97]

  • On January 5, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On January 5, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On February 1, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

Senate – Blocking EPA Climate Change Regulations

S.482 – *Energy Tax Prevention Act of 2011 – Prohibits the EPA from promulgating any regulation or taking any action related to (or that takes into consideration) the emission of a greenhouse gas to address climate change.  A greenhouse gas is defined in this bill as water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, sulfur hexafluoride, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons or “any other substance subject to, or proposed to be subject to, regulation, action, or consideration under this Act to address climate change.”  This bill indicates that the term “air pollutant” in Section 302(g) of the CAA does not include a greenhouse gas.  However, any such definition may include a greenhouse gas for the purpose of addressing concerns other than climate change.  In addition, this bill states that (1) certain prior EPA rules and actions intended to regulate greenhouse gases emission are, as result of this bill, repealed and shall have no legal effect; and (2) provisions of State implementation plans that designate greenhouse gases as pollutants or require limitations on their emissions shall not be federally enforceable and shall be deemed removed from such plans. [S.482]

S.228 – Defending America’s Affordable Energy and Jobs Act – Prohibits the President or the head of  a Federal agency from (1) promulgating a regulation and/or enforcing or implementing any law whose aim, at least in part, is to control the emission of a greenhouse gas (which is defined in the bill as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, sulfur hexafluoride, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbon, nitrogen trifluoride or “any other substance subject to regulation, action, or consideration due to the contribution of the substance to climate change.”); (2) taking an action related to the climate effects of emissions of a greenhouse gas; or (3) considering climate effects in the implementation or enforcement of any law or regulation or condition any denial or approval based on climate effects.  However, this bill contains an exception from the foregoing for “protect[ing] the public health from imminent and substantial harm”.  In addition, this bill states that (1) prior EPA rules intended to regulate atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases shall, as result of this bill, have no force or effect; and (2) State implementation plans that designate greenhouse gases as pollutants or require limitations on their emissions shall not be federally shall not be federally enforceable and shall be deemed removed from such plan.  This bill also preempt any legal claim that may be brought or maintained based upon any potential or actual contribution of a greenhouse gas to climate change or any effect of atmospheric concentrations of a greenhouse gas. [S.228]

  • On January 31, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On January 31, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

S.231 – EPA Stationary Source Regulations Suspension Act – Institutes a 2 year moratorium on EPA taking any action under the CAA with “respect to any stationary source permitting requirement” under Section 111 of the CAA that relates to carbon dioxide or methane.  In addition, this bill states that any action taken by the EPA prior to the expiration of the moratorium, including actions taken prior to enactment, shall be considered to “make carbon dioxide or methane a pollutant subject to regulation” under the CAA other than from new motor vehicles or new motor vehicle engines, as described in Section 202(a) of the CAA.  This bill explicitly does not preclude the EPA from taking an action under Part A of Title II of the CAA relating to vehicle emissions standards. [S.231]

  • On January 31, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On January 31, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

S.15 – Prohibits EPA or any other federal agency from regulating carbon dioxide emissions until China, India, and Russia require similar reductions in carbon dioxide emissions. [S.15]

  • On January 25, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On January 25, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

S.12 – Job Creation Act of 2011 – Includes a provision that prohibits EPA from promulgating or enforcing any regulation for a period of one year from the date of its enactment.  This bill would not apply to any enforcement of a regulation that is necessary for immediate health or safety reasons. [S.12]

  • On January 25, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On January 25, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Finance.

H.R.1611 – Clean Energy Business Zone Act of 2011 – Allows for the designation of clean energy business zones wherein certain clean energy projects will enjoy federal tax incentives. [H.R. 1611]

  • On April 15, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On April 15, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.
  • On April 15, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Small Business.

H.R.1598 – Solar Opportunity and Local Access Rights Act – Promotes solar energy by ensuring homes can sell excess electricity generated by solar technology back into the electrical grid and by streamlining the installation of solar power technology. [H.R. 1598]

  • On April 15, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On April 15, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
  • On April 15, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On April 15, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Financial Services.
  • On April 15, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
  • On April 18, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management.
  • On April 25, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
  • On April 27, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Technology, Information Policy, Intergovernmental Relations and Procurement Reform
  • On May 2, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Insurance, Housing and Community Opportunity

H.R.1522 – To repeal the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. [H.R. 1522]

  • On April 4, 2011, this bill was referred to House Administration
  • On April 13, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On April 13, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources.
  • On April 13, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On April 13, 2011, this bill was referred to House Small Business
  • On April 13, 2011, this bill was referred to House Science, Space, and Technology
  • On April 13, 2011, this bill was referred to House Oversight and Government Reform
  • On April 13, 2011, this bill was referred to House Transportation and Infrastructure
  • On April 13, 2011, this bill was referred to House Financial Services
  • On April 13, 2011, this bill was referred to House Foreign Affairs
  • On April 13, 2011, this bill was referred to House Education and the Workforce
  • On April 13, 2011, this bill was referred to House Ways and Means
  • On April 18, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
  • On April 19, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources.
  • On April 27, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Technology, Information Policy, Intergovernmental Relations and Procurement Reform
  • On May 2, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Insurance, Housing, and Community Opportunity
  • On May 6, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
  • On May 20, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education
  • On May 20, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Training

H.R.1149 – Includes algae-based biofuel in the CAA renewable fuel program and extends the cellulosic biofuel producer tax credit to include algae-based biofuel. [H.R. 1149]

  • On March 17, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On March 17, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.
  • On March 17, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On March 28, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

H.R.945 – Streamlining America’s Various Energy Needs Act – Establishes an interagency task force that will monitor and assist Federal agencies in expediting their review of permits and taking other actions that are necessary to accelerate the completion of energy-related projects, while maintaining safety, public health, and environmental protections. [H.R. 945]

  • On March 8, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On March 8, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On March 11, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power

H.R.909 – *A Roadmap for America’s Energy Future – Requires the sale of oil and gas leases for production located on the outer continental shelf of the United States.  In addition, the bill calls for the development and construction of a coal-to-liquid facility and the licensing of 200 new commercial nuclear reactors by 2040.  The bill also creates an “American-Made Energy Trust Fund” to be funded by the royalties from the oil and gas leases and utilized to conduct a reverse auction program to award funds to certain entities that generate renewable electricity. [H.R. 909]

H.R.748 – Prohibits EPA from authorizing the use of gasoline containing greater than 10% ethanol in light-duty motor vehicles.  It also repeals any waiver granted pursuant to Section 211(f)(4) of the CAA that “allows for the introduction into commerce of gasoline that contains greater than 10-volume-percent ethanol for use in light-duty motor vehicles”. [H.R. 748]

  • On February 16, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On February 16, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On February 28, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

H.R.684 – Extends and revises the income and excise tax credits for biodiesel.  It will allow for a $1.00 tax credit for each gallon of biodiesel produced and increase the income tax credit for small biodiesel producers.  In addition, the definition of renewable diesel will be treated in the same manner as biodiesel for income tax purposes. [H.R. 684]

  • On February 14, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On February 14, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.

H.R.502 – Clean Energy Technology Manufacturing and Export Assistance Act of 2011 – Establishes a Clean Energy Technology Manufacturing and Export Assistance Fund intended to promote investment and productivity in the clean energy technology sector.  For the purposes of this bill, the “clean energy technology” will include a “technology related to the production, use, transmission, storage, control, or conservation of energy that will contribute to a stabilization of atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations through reduction, avoidance, or sequestration of energy-related emissions”.  In addition, such technology must (1) use existing energy supplies with greater efficiency or work to transmit or transport energy with greater effectiveness through U.S. energy infrastructure; or (2) improve energy security and “increase supplies with a favorable balance of environmental effects”. [H.R. 502]

  • On January 26, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On January 26, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
  • On January 26, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On February 9, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

H.R.482 – Water Heater Rating Improvement Act of 2011 – Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to provide a uniform efficiency descriptor for water heaters, storage water heaters, instantaneous water heaters, and unfired water storage tanks. [H.R.482]

  • On January 26, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On January 26, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On February 9, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

H.R.424 – Leave Ethanol Volumes at Existing Levels Act – Reduces the percentage of renewable fuel that is required to be in gasoline.  In addition, the bill prohibits EPA (including by granting a wavier through the fuels and fuel additives waiver process under CAA) from introducing into commerce an ethanol-gasoline blend that contain greater than 10% ethanol that is intended for use in conventional gasoline-powered vehicles or engines. [H.R. 424]

  • On January 25, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On January 25, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On February 9, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

H.R.404 – Renewable Fuels for America’s Future Act of 2011 – Requires (1) a reduction in the income and excise tax credits for alcohol used for fuel by the amount of alcohol used to meet the taxpayer’s renewable fuel obligation under the CAA; and (2) an extension of such tax credits and payments for alcohol fuel mixtures through 2016.  In addition, ensures that at least 50% of manufactured automobiles are dual fueled by 2013 and a minimum of 90% of manufactured automobiles are dual fueled by 2015. [H.R. 404]

  • On January 24, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On January 24, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.
  • On January 24, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On January 24, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
  • On January 25, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit.
  • On February 1, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

H.R.301 – New Manhattan Project for Energy Independence – Appropriates prize money to be awarded to persons for the research and development of the technologies and materials necessary to improve vehicle fuel efficiency and alternative fuel sources, develop and build energy efficient buildings, construct large scale thermal power plants, develop and produce biofuels, advance carbon sequestration, improve nuclear waste disposal technology and develop a sustainable nuclear fusion reaction. In addition, it establishes a commission called the “New Manhattan Project for Energy Independence” that will recommend steps that must be taken to ensure the U.S. achieves 50% energy independence within 10 years and 100% energy independence within 20 years. [H.R. 301]

  • On January 18, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On January 18, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
  • On February 10, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment.

H.R.230 – 21st Century Energy Independence Act of 2011 – Establishes a program for loan guarantees, subject to certain limitations, which shall cover up to 80% of the cost for (1) up to 5 projects for the “harvesting, storing, and delivery of agriculture residues for use in cellulosic or traditional ethanol production plants”; (2) “cellulosic ethanol production technologies that will reduce the initial capital cost to $2.50 per annual gallon and reduce operation and maintenance costs to 125 percent of those at traditional corn ethanol plants”; (3) “advanced biomass gasifiers that can provide at least 90[%] of the thermal input requirements for traditional ethanol plants to produce syngas”; and (4) certain appropriately scaled catalytic conversion projects to convert syngas to liquid fuels. [H.R. 230]

  • On January 7, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On January 7, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On January 7, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
  • On February 1, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.
  • On February 10, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment.

H.R.153 – Ensuring Affordable Energy Act – Prohibits EPA funding for a cap and trade program which is defined as a “distribution of a limited amount of allowances that permit the emission of one or more greenhouse gases.”  Greenhouse gases shall, for the purposes of this bill, include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, sulfur hexafluoride, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, or “any other anthropogenic gas designated as a greenhouse gas for purposes of such cap-and-trade program or such requirement.”  This bill would also prohibit funding for any statutory or regulatory requirement for emissions of greenhouse gases from a stationary source. [H.R. 153]

  • On January 5, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On January 5, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • On February 1, 2011, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.

H.R.66 – Waste-to-Energy Technology Act of 2011 – Provides for a 30% energy tax credit for investment in qualified waste-to-energy property.  This includes property which “uses municipal solid waste or municipal sewage sludge as the feedstock for producing solid, liquid, or gas fuel, or for producing energy”.  To qualify for the tax credit, the Secretary of Treasury must certify any waste-to-energy project based upon the commercial viability of the project and whether the project (1) uses the least of amount of recycled materials as possible; (2) will provide the greatest net impact in avoiding or reducing greenhouse gases; (3) will have the lowest levelized cost of generated or stored energy or of measured reduction in energy consumption or greenhouse gas emission; and (4) will pose the fewest risks (other than climate risks) to environmental and human health. [H.R. 66]

  • On January 5, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On January 5, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.

Senate – Energy Policy

S.828 – Streamlining Energy Efficiency for Schools Act of 2011 – coordinates and disseminates information on existing federal programs available to develop and finance energy efficiency measures for schools. [S.828]

  • On April 14, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On April 14, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

S.757 – Creates financial awards for the development and implementation of technology to capture carbon dioxide from dilute sources. [S.757]

  • On April 7, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On April 7, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

S.741 – *To establish a renewable electricity standard that would require electricity retailers to obtain 25% of electricity from renewable sources by the year 2025. [S.741]

  • On April 6, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On April 6, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
  • On May 12, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing to examine this bill
  • On May 12, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources heard expert testimony from:
    • Mr. Scott Klara, Deputy Director, National Energy Technology Laboratory on the Department of Energy’s efforts in CCS technology development
    • For more information
  • On May 26, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources ordered this bill to be reported favorably with amendments
  • On July 11, 2011, this bill was placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders

S.699 – Department of Energy Carbon Capture and Sequestration Program Amendments Act of 2011 – promotes the commerical application of integrated systems for the capture, injection, monitoring and the long-term geological storage of carbon dioxide. [S.699]

  • On March 31, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On March 31, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

S.689 – *Energy Security Act of 2011 – establishes a national oil independence goal to reduce oil consumption by an amount equal to or greater than the quantity of oil imported by the United States from outside of North America by 2030.  In addition, it develops a national oil independence plan that describes programs that will aid in meeting or exceeding the goals of such a plan. [S.689]

  • On March 30, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On March 30, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
  • On May 12, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing to examine this bill.
  • On May 12, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources heard expert testimony from:
    • Mr. Scott Klara, Deputy Director, National Energy Technology Laboratory on the Department of Energy’s efforts in CCS technology development
    • Ms. Sallie E. Greenberg, Assistant Director, Illinois State Geological Survey on S.699
    • Mr. Matt Watson, Senior Energy Policy Manager, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) on EDF support of S.699
    • Ms. Chiara Trabucchi, Principal and Chief Financial Officer, Industrial Economics Incorporated on changes to S.699 to ensure financial security for businesses
    • For more information
  • On July 11, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources reported this bill with amendments.
  • On July 11, 2011, this bill was placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders.

S.559 – Securing America’s Future with Energy and Sustainable Technologies Act – Promotes the production and use of renewable energy by (1) providing tax incentives to promote biofuel; (2) increasing fuel efficiency requirements; (3) providing loan guarantees for the construction of renewable fuel pipelines; (4) authorizing tax incentives for the installation of blender pumps at gas stations; (5) creating a renewable electricity integration tax credit; (6) removing certain tax restrictions to promote wind energy; and (7) imposing a renewable electricity requirement on utilities requiring 10% of electricity to be derived from renewables in 2013 and increasing the requirement incrementally through 2025 when 25% of electricity is required to be derived from renewables. [S.559]

  • On March 10, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On March 10, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Finance.

S.398 – *Implementation of National Consensus Appliance Agreements Act of 2011 – Amends the efficiency standards in the Energy Policy and Conservation Act with regard to heat pumps, air conditioners, refrigerators and freezers, water heaters, clothes washers and dryers, dishwashers and furnaces. [S. 398]

  • On February 17, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On February 17, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
  • On March 10, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing to examine this bill.
  • On March 10, 2011, hearings for this bill were held by the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
  • On March 10, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources heard expert testimony from:
    • Ms. Kathleen Hogan, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency, U.S. Department of Energy on implementation of the National Consensus Appliance Agreements Act of 2011
    • Mr. Steven Nadel, Executive Director, American Council for an Energy-Efficent Economy (ACEEE) on ACEEE support for S.398
    • Mr. Joseph M. McGuire, President, Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) on support for S.398
    • Mr. Kyle Pitsor, Vice President, Government Relations, National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) on NEMA support of consensus provisions to S.398
    • Mr. Stephen R. Yurek, President & Chief Executive Officer, The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) on AHRI support for provisions in S.398
    • Dr. Mark Cooper, Director of Research, Consumer Federation of America (CFA) on CFA support of S.398
    • For more information
  • On April 12, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources ordered this bill to be reported
  • On May 18, 2011, this bill was reported on in the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, by Senator Bingaman with amendments.
  • On May 18, 2011, this bill was placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders

S.298 – Charging America Forward Act – This bill (1) extends through 2014 the tax credit for purchasing (a) hybrid motor vehicles, or (b) an alternative fuel vehicle refueling property; (2) expands the tax credit for new plug-in electric drive motor vehicles; (3) accelerates depreciation of smart meters and smart grid systems; (4) allows for a tax credit for qualified used energy storage property; and (5) authorizes grants to promote the manufacturing of advanced batteries and related components in the U.S. [S. 298]

  • On February 7, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On February 7, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Finance.

S.187 – *Biofuels Market Expansion Act of 2011 – Requires that by 2014, 50% of automobiles and light duty trucks for sale in the U.S are dual fueled and that by 2016, 90% of automobiles and light duty trucks for sale in the U.S are dual fueled.  In addition, it includes grant money for the installation of pumps at fuel stations capable of dispensing at least three different blends of gasoline and ethanol and loan guarantees for the construction of renewable fuel pipelines. [S.187]

  • On January 25, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On January 25, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
  • On April 7, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing to examine this bill.
  • On April 7, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources heard expert testimony from:
    • Hon. Tom Harkin, U.S. Senator on support of S.187 and the importance of expanding biofuels in the U.S.
    • Mr. Bill Brady, CEO, Mascoma Corporation, Lebanon, NH on the importance of government support of increased biofuel use in U.S.
    • Mr. Shane Karr, Vice President for Federal Affairs, Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, Washington, D.C. on Alliance views of necessary provisions to S.187
    • Mr. Bob Dinneen, President & CEO, Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), Washington, D.C. on RFA support of S.187
    • Mr. John Eichberger, Vice President, Government Relations, National Association of Convenience Stores, Alexandria, VA on desired provisions to S.187
    • Dr. Henry Kelly, Acting Assistant Secretary , U.S. Department of Energy, Washington, D.C. on DOE position on S.187
    • For more information

S.156 – Water Heater Rating Improvement Act of 2011 – Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to provide a uniform efficiency descriptor for water heaters, storage water heaters, instantaneous water heaters, and unfired water storage tanks. [S.156]

  • On January 25, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On January 25, 2011, this bill referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

S.77 – Pollution and Costs Reduction Act – Creates the “Building Pollution Reduction Program” with the goal of reducing building emissions and operating costs by assisting owners in constructing highly energy efficient buildings and increasing the energy efficiency of existing buildings.  Any such measures should result in “verifiable, additional, and enforceable reductions in emissions of air pollutants” as a result of (1) improved energy efficiency; (2) increased water-use efficiency; (3) the use of renewable energy sources; and/or (4) additional measures that will result in a decrease in emissions. [S.77]

  • On January 25, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On January 25, 2011, this will was referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

House of Representatives – Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

H.R.680 – Prohibits United States contributions to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. [H.R. 680]

  • On February 11, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On February 11, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
  • On February 19, 2011, H.R.1 passed the House with an amendment identical to this bill.

House of Representatives – Budget

H.R.1473 – Department of Defense and Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011 – this bill provides funding to United States government agencies through the end of the 2011 fiscal year.  It does not include any of the EPA blocking measures included as amendments to H.R.1. [H.R. 1473]

  • On April 11, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On April 14, 2011, this bill was passed in the House.
  • On April 14, 2011, this bill was passed in the Senate.
  • On April 15, 2011, this bill was signed by the President and became Public Law No: 112-10.
  • For more information

H.R.1 – Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011 – this bill is a Continuing Resolution for the fiscal year 2011 budget.  Section 1746 of this bill restricts EPA from funding any effort intended to enforce a regulation or take any action with regard to greenhouse gas emissions resulting from a concern over climate change (other than motor vehicle emissions standards).  In addition, Section 1759 of this bill reduces the budget for the Council on Environmental Quality.  This bill also includes several amendments that have the intended effect of limiting EPA’s use of funds to regulate climate change.  These amendments include: (1) an amendment introduced by Rep. Pompeo (R-KS) [H.AMDT.47] that removes funding for EPA’s greenhouse gas registry; (2) an amendment introduced by Rep. Carter (R-TX) [H.AMDT.88] that blocks EPA from implementing new air pollution rules for cement kilns; (3) an amendment introduced by Rep. Scalise (R-LA) [H.AMDT.89] that prohibits the payment of salary to the Assistant to the President for Energy and Climate Change and the Special Envoy for Climate Change; (4) an amendment introduced by Rep. Young (R-AK) [H.AMDT.96] that facilitates exploratory drilling off the Alaskan coast; (5) an amendment introduced by Rep. Poe (R-TX) [H.AMDT.101] that prevents EPA from addressing the emission of greenhouse gases for any reason; (6) an amendment introduced by Rep. Flake (R-AZ) [H.AMDT.145] that prevents funds from being used to construct ethanol blender pump or storage facilities; (7) an amendment introduced by Rep. Hall (R-TX) [H.AMDT.148] that restricts the NOAA from providing a reference source for data and analysis relating to climate change; (8) an amendment introduced by Rep. Griffith (R-VA) [H.AMDT.151] that prohibits action relating to permit coordination for surface coal mining; (9) an amendment introduced by Rep. Luetkemeyer (R-MO) [H.AMDT.154] that prohibits funds from being contributed to the IPCC (see H.R.680 above); (10) an amendment introduced by Rep. Sullivan (R-OK) [H.AMDT.156] that cuts EPA funding for the implementation of the decision to increase the ethanol content of gasoline from 10% to 15%; and (11) an amendment introduced by Rep. McKinley (R-WV) [H.AMDT.158] that restricts EPA from classifying coal ash as hazardous waste. [H.R. 1]

  • On February 11, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On February 16, 2011, H.AMDT.47 was added by a vote of 239 to 185.
  • On February 17, 2011, H.AMDT.88 was added by a vote of 250 to 177.
  • On February 17, 2011, H.AMDT.89 was added by a vote of 249 to 179.
  • On February 18, 2011, H.AMDT.96 was added by a vote of 243 to 185.
  • On February 18, 2011, H.AMDT.101 was added by a vote of 249 to 177.
  • On February 19, 2011, H.AMDT.145 was added by a vote of 261 to 158.
  • On February 19, 2011, H.AMDT.148 was added by a vote of 233 to 187.
  • On February 19, 2011, H.AMDT.151 was added by a vote of 235 to 185.
  • On February 19, 2011, H.AMDT.154 was added by a vote of 244 to 179.
  • On February 19, 2011, H.AMDT.156 was added by a vote of 285 to 136.
  • On February 19, 2011, H.AMDT.158 was added by a vote of 239 to 183.
  • On February 19, 2011, this bill was passed by the House by a vote of 235 to 189.
  • On March 9, 2011, Senate floor actions put this bill back on the Calendar.

House of Representatives

H.R.1341 – Establishing Public Accountability Act of 2011 – requires EPA to identify the net change in domestic jobs that is likely to result due to the adoption of a proposed rule. [H.R.1341]

  • On April 4, 2011, this bill was introduced in the House.
  • On April 4, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

 

Senate

S.609 – Comprehensive Assessment of Regulations on the Economy Act of 2011 – Establishes a “Cumulative Regulatory Assessment Committee” to assess the direct and indirect impacts of EPA or State regulations promulgated on or subsequent to January 1, 2010 that implement certain provision under the CAA, including greenhouse gas emissions under Titles I, II, and V of the CAA, on (1) employment; (2) economic development; (3) the electric power sector, including energy security and retail electricity rates; (4) the domestic refining and petrochemical sector; (5) State and local governments; (6) small businesses; (7) agriculture; and (8) energy-intensive, trade-exposed industry. [S.609]

  • On March 17, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On March 17, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

S.493 – SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act of 2011 – Reauthorizes the Small Business Innovation Research and the Small Business Technology Transfer programs of the Small Business Administration.  However, an amendment to this bill [S.AMDT.183 (see S1642)], proposed by Senator McConnell (R-KY), prohibits the EPA from promulgating any “regulation concerning, taking action relating to, or taking into consideration the emission of a greenhouse gas to address climate change.”  McConnell’s amendment is identical to the Energy Tax Prevention Act of 2011 introduced by Senator Inhofe on March 3, 2011.  In addition, Senator Baucus (D-MT) has proposed an amendment [S.AMDT.236 (see S1763)] that would exempt relatively small stationary source emitters from EPA greenhouse gas regulations.  Senator Rockefeller (D-WV) has also submitted an amendment identical to his proposal from earlier in the year instituting a two year moratorium on EPA regulation of greenhouse gases [S.AMDT.215 (see S1686)]. [S.493]

  • On March 3, 2011, this bill was introduced in the Senate.
  • On March 3, 2011, this bill was referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.
  • On March 3, 2011, the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship ordered this bill to be reported with amendments.
  • On March 15, 2011, S.AMDT.183 was proposed by Senator McConnell.
  • On March 15, 2011, S.AMDT.215 was proposed by Senator Rockefeller.
  • On March 16, 2011, S.AMDT.236 was proposed by Senator Baucus.
  • On April 6, 2011, S.AMDT.183, which was proposed by Senator McConnell, was rejected.
  • On April 6, 2011, S.AMDT.215, which was proposed by Senator Rockefeller, was rejected.
  • On April 6, 2011, S.AMDT.236, which was proposed by Senator Baucus, was rejected.
  • On May 4, 2011, cloture on this bill was not invoked in Senate by a Yea-Nays vote of 52-44