Arnold Karr
Columbia

This is the response I got from Sen. Jim DeMint about the Consumer-First Energy Act.

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Dear Mr. Karr,

Thank you for contacting me regarding S. 3044, the Consumer-First Energy Act. I appreciate hearing from you on this important issue.

As you may know, S. 3044, the Consumer-First Energy Act was introduced by Senator Harry Reid of Nevada. This bill would raise taxes on our domestic energy companies by over $18 billion and use the additional tax revenue to incentivize a limited scope of alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, and biofuels through tax credits and bonds.

While I support the increased development of renewable energy technologies, this bill would dramatically raise taxes on every American, through higher energy costs, in order to provide tax incentives to a small group of people developing renewable technologies. In addition, this bill restricts the types of renewable technologies that will qualify for the credits in the bill.

I believe America must move towards a more robust and diverse energy portfolio in an effort to increase our energy security and independence. In order to do that, we must develop our domestic energy resources, expand our refining capacity, and explore the full range of clean and alternative energy technologies.

If we are serious about diversifying our energy portfolio, the government should not be picking certain types of renewable technologies at the expense of other technologies. We must pursue many different solutions, increase domestic oil production, and build more nuclear power plants to create more competition in the energy markets. Allowing markets to work will keep prices down and help create alternative energy sources.

During my time in Congress, I have consistently supported developing our domestic energy sources, encouraging alternative technologies, and reducing overtly bureaucratic regulations on energy production. In addition, I have pushed for the increased use of nuclear energy to provide a clean base of electricity that is safe and affordable. You can be sure I will continue to fight for common sense solutions that address America’s energy problems.

Currently, S. 3044 failed a procedural vote on June 10, 2008. Rest assured, I will keep your thoughts in mind as Congress towards finding solutions for the challenges we face.

Thank you again for sharing your thoughts with me. Allow we do not see eye-to-eye on this issue, please feel free to contact me again in the future with anything important to you or your family. It is an honor to serve you and the people of South Carolina.

Sincerely,

Jim DeMint
United States Senator