HOUSE PASSES SPACE'S $48 MILLION APPALACHIAN REGIONAL COMMISSION ENERGY INITIATIVE

The following information was released by the office of Ohio Rep. Zachary Space:

Today, the House of Representatives passed a bill that included provisions introduced by Congressman Zack Space (D-OH) that authorizes a $48 million energy initiative under the Appalachian Regional Commission. This initiative, which would provide $12 million a year over the next four years, was included in the ARC reauthorization bill.

This initiative would fund projects that promote energy efficiency in the Appalachian region to enhance its economic competitiveness. It would support projects that increase the use of renewable energy resources including biomass. This initiative would also support the development of advances in conventional energy resources such as advanced clean coal.

"This initiative has the potential to dramatically expand the economy of the Appalachian region by making it an incubator for new technology," Space said. "This region is unique in the natural resources available for use as alternative energy, and this program will allow Appalachia to be on the cutting edge in our national development of these alternative technologies."

"Ohio is in need of economic stimulus that will bring our state into prosperity. This legislation will help make that goal a reality," Space said.

Congressman Space was able to usher the legislation through the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in February of this year. Passing the full House today by a 332 to 70 margin, the bill will now go to the Senate for consideration.

This legislation is part of Space's ongoing commitment to the ARC. Last month, Space won a commitment form House leaders to restore $30 million in ARC funding after opponents attempted to slash the program.

Congressman Space represents Ohio's 18th Congressional District. Elected in 2006, he is working to restore integrity to the office, expand Ohio's economy, and support renewable energy. A staunchly independent voice, Space has been ranked the 13th most likely Democrat to buck party leadership.