SENATE UNANIMOUSLY OVERRIDES GOV’S VETO OF COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY BILL

Measure will lower Maine’s energy costs and strengthen RGGI

AUGUSTA–Today in a 35-0 vote the Senate overrode the Governor’s veto of a bipartisan comprehensive energy bill to significantly lower energy costs for Maine homes and businesses.

“This is a good day for Maine,” said Senate President Justin Alfond of Portland. “Once again, Republicans joined Democrats in sending a message to the Governor by overwhelmingly overriding the Governor’s veto. Lawmakers know that it is our job to address the most important issues facing our state, including lowering energy costs for Maine’s small businesses and families.”

The bipartisan energy measure increases energy efficiency by fully funding Efficiency Maine, implements reforms to the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), and provides rate-relief for Maine businesses.

“Today the Legislature chose to not let one man stand in the way of progress for Maine people,” said Senate Majority Leader Seth Goodall of Richmond. “This bill was negotiated between Democrats, Republicans, industry, and environmentalists. Once again, the Governor, opposed it. I’m pleased to say the legislature stood strong and supported this bill to move Maine forward.”

The bill will also lower global warming pollution limits from power plants across the Northeast by 45% through reforms to the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) and provide financial assistance to families to convert to cheaper, cleaner heating systems.  Additionally, the bill will give Maine the authority to contract for future pipeline capacity into New England in order to relieve costly pipeline congestion for power plants that run on natural gas.

The House overrode the governor’s veto of the bill, LD 1559, “An Act To Reduce Energy Costs, Increase Energy Efficiency, Promote Electric System Reliability and Protect the Environment,” in a 121-11 vote last week. The bill will now become law.

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