Letter to the editor: In support of LD 1215

Wed, 05/27/2015 - 10:45am

I am writing to ask readers to contact your senators and request support for LD 1215. This bill will reaffirm the vote in the previous session for an Omnibus Energy bill that included $59 million in funding to support energy efficiency for Mainers. The Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee voted 11-2 in favor of LD 1215 and the House voted 138-1. This bill will fix a clearly accidental transcription error that has delayed full funding and allowed those who would stall progress to re-argue the issues.

To allow a drastic cut in funding for energy efficiency efforts (from the agreed upon $59 million to $23 million), would leave Maine residents at a disadvantage as other states help individuals and businesses reduce their reliance on the limited supply of fossil fuels. As long as only fossil fuel options are given public funds, alternative solutions will not be available.

Efficiency Maine reports that their programs have saved Maine businesses and residents over $1 billion since 2002, and this funding would keep hundreds of businesses from laying off employees.

The Legislature has already wasted far too much time (and our money) on this obvious error. It is time to reinsert the "and" and move on with the important business of the people of Maine.

Linda Dartt lives in Montville and owns Linda Dartt Health Care Consulting