Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies Chairwoman Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09) today delivered the following remarks to the House Rules Committee in support of an appropriate rule for the House to consider H.R. 8294, a minibus of six fiscal year 2023 appropriations bills:
The 2023 Energy and Water bill takes a significant step forward to secure American energy independence, rebuild critical infrastructure, foster scientific innovation, and sustain life on Earth. The bill invests resources in and addresses challenges faced by each of the regions we have the honor of representing.
By responsibly meeting America’s energy and water needs, this bill empowers us to take on some of the biggest issues we face – including lowering energy prices and tackling climate change.
Putin’s war against Ukraine crystalizes how essential having a comprehensive energy strategy is to our economy and security. It is clear that America needs to innovate – not allow foreign adversaries to disrupt our way of life.
Our bill invests over $56 billion for America’s energy and water priorities, while supporting good-paying jobs across the country.
Let me walk through key investments in this division:
- $48.2 billion for the Department of Energy, $3.3 billion above enacted. Within DOE:
- Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy receives record funding of $4 billion, $800 million above enacted.
- That includes a new Office of State and Community Energy Programs that receives $562 million to increase energy affordability by working with state, local, and community-level partners.
- ARPA-E receives $550 million, $100 million above enacted, to invent the future.
- The Office of Science receives $8 billion, $525 million above enacted, which is so vital to American energy innovation and basic research in the physical sciences.
- The new Defense Production Act Domestic Clean Energy Accelerator receives $100 million to expand domestic manufacturing and help America lead in solar and other clean energy industries.
- And we responsibly fund our nuclear deterrent while increasing funding for nonproliferation programs.
- The Army Corps receives $8.9 billion, $2.3 billion above the budget request, to support our nation’s water infrastructure.
- The Bureau of Reclamation receives $1.9 billion, $477 million above the budget request, including programs to respond to the severe western drought.
- And our bill increases funding for regional commissions, which promote economic development in distressed counties.
Thank you very much, and I’m happy to answer any questions you may have.
Original source can be found here.
