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House Republicans want
energy solutions based on innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, not
state bureaucracy
House Republicans are
calling on Gov. Christine Gregoire and Democrats to support an energy
plan that allows the private sector to help address the state’s
problems, instead of creating a state bureaucracy that is ineffective
and puts taxpayers on the hook.
“It’s vital to Washington’s future that it become self-reliant for
energy. If we are going to come up with a comprehensive energy plan that
is good for the whole state, it can’t be based on the state-run
strategies of the past that are unresponsive to our changing energy
needs,” said Rep. Doug Ericksen, House Republican Floor Leader. “The
private sector is ready and able to assist with our energy needs and we
need to provide them the regulatory certainty to move forward.”
House Republicans will be
unveiling a statewide, comprehensive energy plan in the 2006 legislative
session that reduces fuel costs, promotes new alternative energy
sources, and creates jobs, while protecting the environment, Ericksen
said. The plan will include creating the necessary regulatory climate to
provide certainty in the private sector.
“Republicans and Democrats
agree the state has energy challenges, but have very different
philosophies when it comes to addressing them,” said Ericksen,
R-Ferndale. “House Republicans believe in innovation, technology, and a
model where government provides incentives for entrepreneurial-driven
solutions. This is in stark contrast to a big government approach.”
House Republicans also
believe a statewide, comprehensive energy plan begins with educating the
public on new ideas and technologies.
“We need to help folks
understand what is out there in terms of new ideas and technology that
can be produced here in Washington. For example, how to use green fuels
and that biodiesel and ethanol are clean, non-polluting solutions,” said
Ericksen. “We believe once the public is educated on its options, it
will begin to embrace new technology more.”
The legislative session begins on January 9 and is scheduled to run 60
days.
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For more information, contact:
John
Handy, Assistant Director: (360) 786-5758
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