Letter Supporting S. 2818, a Bill to Amend the Energy Conservation and Production Act to Improve Weatherization Assistance for Low-income Families

The Honorable George LeMieux
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510

Dear Senator LeMieux:

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the world's largest business federation representing the interests of more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region, supports S. 2818, a bill to amend the Energy Conservation and Production Act to improve weatherization assistance for low-income families. S. 2818 would increase the Weatherization Assistance program authorized by the economic stimulus legislation to $8,500 per dwelling, and expand the definition of eligible "weatherization materials" to include predisaster hazard mitigation home improvements that also achieve energy efficiency.

The Chamber supported the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, legislation intended to stimulate the languishing economy, create jobs, and get Americans back to work. Expanding the Weatherization Assistance program as set forth in S. 2818 would take a successful federal program and make it better. The bill would allow low-income families to take on storm-proofing and hardening projects, including wind resistant and energy efficient windows, window coverings, doors, and roofing. Weatherization that lowers home energy costs while preventing loss from extreme events is good economic and environmental policy.

The Chamber supports S. 2818 and thanks you for your leadership on this important issue.

Sincerely,

R. Bruce Josten