Recent Federal Bills

Below are summaries of Bills Introduced, Committee Reports, Chamber Actions, and Public Laws reported in the most recent issue of ELR's Weekly Update.

would direct DOI and the Departmentof Agriculture to sell certain federal land and direct that the proceeds of such sales be applied to reduce the federal budget deficit.

would amend the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act to establish a federal energy efficiency resource standard for electricity and natural gas suppliers.

would promote research, development, and demonstration of marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy technologies.

would promote geothermal energy.

would require the General Services Administartion and DOE to set goals for deep energy retrofits in federal buildings.

would improve the productivity and energy efficiency of the manufacturing sector by directing DOE, in coordination with the National Academies and other appropriate federal agencies, to develop a smart manufacturing plan and to provide assistance to small and medium-sized manufacturers in implementing smart manufacturing programs.

would amend the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to promote alternative fueled vehicle fleets and infrastructure.

would remove the authority DOE to amend or issue new energy efficiency standards for ceiling fans.

would require DOE to review rulemaking proceedings of other federal agencies for the potential to cause an adverse effect on the cost, time, or compliance with energy efficiency regulations, guidelines, or standards.

would accelerate the adoption of smart building technologies in the private sector and key federal agencies.