NTU urges all Representatives to vote “NO” on H.R. 5019, the “Home Star Energy Retrofit Act,” which would provide rebates to individuals or eligible contractors for energy efficiency upgrades on home improvement projects.
H.R. 5019 would have two components. “Silver Star” would enable homeowners to obtain in-store rebates on energy-saving installation efforts, such as air sealing and window replacement. The government would decide which projects are deemed “approved,” leading to yet another federal program that picks winners and losers without consideration for the marketplace. The even more extensive Gold Star program would require a whole new certification and/or post-implementation audit process for home energy efficiency retrofitting projects.
This “Cash for Caulkers” idea is modeled after “Cash for Clunkers,” a mismanaged effort that ended up costing taxpayers billions. In addition, the government already has a variety of similar energy efficiency programs, some of which (such as the Energy Star program) have been cited for poor oversight by federal investigators. Given the current economic climate, it is unfathomable for our leaders to spend $6.6 billion on one more scheme that diverts consumer spending from potentially more beneficial uses. Congress should begin the urgent task of tackling our national debt – not adding to it.
A "NO" vote on H.R. 5019 will be considered the pro-taxpayer vote in our annual Rating of Congress.
If you have any questions, please contact NTU Federal Government Affairs Manager Jordan Forbes at (703) 683-5700