Energy Inefficiency: Congress Spins Wheels Until Bill Dies
As we (and many others) predicted last week, the latest effort at crafting cogent energy policy was much ado about nothing.
As we (and many others) predicted last week, the latest effort at crafting cogent energy policy was much ado about nothing.
The bill [pdf], which was introduced by Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Rob Portman (R-OH), would have inched us closer to better, smarter energy policy. A baby step in the right direction but at least a step. And somewhat miraculously in the current congressional climate, it had drawn unusual bipartisan support, and was expected to garner enough votes to pass.
But it died in the Senate in a standoff over the Keystone XL pipeline, which the Obama administration delayed making a decision on yet again, and plans for climate change regulations. Score one (or more) for politics. Zero for the environment, progress, and the American people.
On supporting science journalism
If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
The bill’s sponsors have promised to keep up the fight for energy efficiency but for now the issue is dead in the water. A walking shadow, signifying nothing changed in a highly partisan Congress. More here and here.
It’s Time to Stand Up for Science
If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.
I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.
If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.
In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.
There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.
