Mich. lawmaker pushes energy bill

7/8/2008

MONROE - State Rep. Kate Ebli was among Michigan lawmakers who called on the state Senate yesterday to pass legislation that would encourage the production of alternative fuels, potentially easing motorists' pain at the pump and stimulating Michigan's economy.

At a news conference in a commuter parking lot on LaPlaisance Road at I-75, Ms. Ebli (D., Monroe) pointed to the $4.21 per gallon price posted at a nearby gasoline station as a reason for backing the proposal that passed the state House of Representatives last month.

"Gas is skyrocketing, and it is taking a toll on our working families," she said. "The number one thing that I hear from people when I talk about issues is the price of gas."

The legislative package includes proposals that encourage the use of alternative fuels: providing tax incentives on equipment to harvest biomass used in alternative fuels' production; promoting insurance discounts for drivers who buy hybrid vehicles; offering incentives to retailers who sell renewable fuels, and developing strategies for increased production of alternative fuels.

News conferences urging the two bills' passage were held throughout the states by state representatives and candidates seeking election to House seats.

The House plan would decrease the country's dependence on foreign oil and create good-paying jobs, and power an economic renaissance for Michigan, Ms. Ebli said.