CUB Legislative Update and a New CUB Addition
Posted on March 1, 2011 by John Sturm
Tags, Legislative & Political
Alert readers know that CUB advocates on behalf of residential ratepayers in dockets before the Public Utility Commission, but our work doesn’t stop there. CUB’s legislative team spends considerable time tracking proposed legislation in Oregon to promote those laws which protect ratepayer interests and to advocate against those which threaten such interests.
The 76th Legislative Assembly is in full swing and CUB has its work cut out for it. During a three-day organizational session in January, the Legislature introduced more than 1600 bills –and many more have been introduced in the following weeks. In fact, it’s not uncommon for the Oregon House and Senate to introduce a few thousand bills and resolutions in all. Tracking which of those bills might impact the interest of residential utility customers requires time and organization.
In this session, CUB is tracking about 75 pieces of legislation, covering a wide variety of issues. For example, there are a number of bills relating to energy efficiency in schools; several bills that would affect the development of ocean wave energy in Oregon; at least two proposals promoting nuclear energy in Oregon; and one bill that even calls for abolishing the Department of Energy. Additionally, there are several bills which would alter current funding for programs which CUB has supported, including funding for the Business Energy Tax Credit program and the Energy Trust.
CUB will be keeping a close eye on these and many other bills throughout the year. And, as CUB Organizing Director Jeff Bissonnette can tell you, that’s no small task –especially when you have a newborn son to look after. That’s right; CUB extends a warm welcome to the newest member of the family and heartfelt congratulations to Jeff and his wife Melanie, who gave birth to their son on February 19!
CUB’s Legislative Action Team is also improving efforts to reach out to Oregon rate-payers and businesses potentially affected by proposed legislation. Our expanded direct-action program recognizes that CUB’s voice is stronger when partnered with those of Oregon’s citizens most affected by rate shifts. Look for more information from CUB in the coming months detailing opportunities to lend your voice to CUB. We have a lot of work to do this session and your continued support is appreciated!
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03/23/17 | 0 Comments | CUB Legislative Update and a New CUB Addition