The WDDA has been extremely active and vocal in seeking an extension of the residential energy efficiency tax credits. We just received notice that some of what we've been pushing for has been incorporated into a tax bill proposed by Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT), chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.
While much work remains to be done, this is a positive step in the right direction. Now it's incumbent upon us to let our elected officials know how important it is for the extension to remain in the final package. This is an critical one-year tax credit extension that will create and preserve jobs, offer prudent consumer incentives for environmentally sustainable purchases (which will reduce our dependence on foreign oil) and help the economic rebound.
The biggest challenge remains in the U.S. House, where all tax credits are getting heavy scrutiny.
Leaders of the WDDA met with the offices of fellow Finance Committee members Sens. Bingaman and Snowe last month, during which we pushed for higher credits (from $200 to $1,500), with Energy Star products as the primary focus. It appears that they listened, and they have included what they believe is affordable and/or politically viable.
Sen. Baucus' announcement is available here: http://finance.senate.gov/newsroom/chairman/release/?id=a0c2f257-e293-4d75-bfb6-628ce43f36f3
Again, please let your members of Congress know you support this important tax credit. It's good for our industry, our employees and our country.
David Walkerdwalker@wddalliance.org
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