As the debate within the US Congress continues to wage on a renewable energy bill, ridiculous movie references were made to explain thoughts on the bill that is set to up the US’ standards for renewable energy implementation into traditional energy schemes.
The two major political parties, Republican and Democrat, have been debating House Bill 1001 which passed the Senate via a 21 to 13 vote – unable to accrue a single Republican vote. The same outcome occurred when the bill came to a vote in the House of Representatives.
Colorado Senator Bill Cadman, R-Colorado Springs, compared the bill’s approval to Tim Burton’s latest flick “Alice in Wonderland” saying, "It is the story of a girl traveling through a strange land with distorted realities and bizarre characters." Cadman added, "That’s what our constituents are seeing. In your minds you are living a fairy tale, imposing on your constituents a mandated government-subsidized nightmare."
Republicans argued that the Democrat-sponsored bill said the measure is designed to benefit union workers with Democrats countering that the legislation will help create long-term employment opportunities and offer energy independence.
Under House Bill 1001, investor-owned utilities would have to draw 30% of their energy from renewable sources by 2020, rather than the current 20%. It also emphasizes small-scale, home-based energy production with a provision that requires solar-panel installers be certified.
Senate Republicans proposed several amendments; all rejected by the majority house holder Democratic party. "Apparently it’s a perfect bill because no adjustment is allowed," said Senator Kevin Lundberg.
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