The VT Energy Bill: The Veto Override
My VT readers are probably well aware of the energy bill, H.250, and that it was vetoed by Governor Douglas a few days ago. The legislature is reconvening this summer in an attempt to override the veto. One of the more controversial aspects of the bill (and the one that prompted the veto) is a tax adjustment on Vermont Yankee, our nuclear power plant, that will essentially tax the plant at the same rate as a wind farm. There’s a great summary of the bill and details of the override attempt from VPIRG that you should have a look at, and you can also write a letter to your representative from there. The bill will:
1. Invests in renewable energy by requiring Vermont utilities to supply 25% of our power from clean local sources by 2012;
2. Makes it easier for businesses and individuals to invest in small renewable energy projects;
3. Improves efficiency by tightening building codes and expanding the mandate and funding of Efficiency Vermont so they can help us use less heating oil as well as electricity.
4. All this is paid for by making Vermont Yankee pay the same property tax rate as wind farms.
Also, at Green Mountain Daily, diarist Ed has given us a great analysis of the bill, as well as a guide to debunking the myths and half-truths about the bill that its opponents are saying. It’s a fact sheet, of sorts, so you can hopefully let others know about it as well.
Public pressure is mounting on this, and there’s a good chance that if it increases, the override would be a success, so be sure to contact your Senators and Representatives and ask them to support the override and help VT take the lead in energy policy.
