PENNSYLVANIA — Pat Toomey was one of a few Senators this morning to vote against the Energy Policy Modernization Act. The bipartisan legislation, which helps modernize the electricity grid and enhance energy efficiency, earned 85 “Yes” votes from Senators on both sides of the aisle. Opposing the bill, however, was ultra-conservative groups like the Heritage Foundation and FreedomWorks — which was enough to make up Toomey’s mind for him.
What did Pat Toomey oppose in voting against the Energy Policy Modernization Act today?
Enhanced Energy Efficiency:
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Reauthorizes/improves weatherization and state energy programs;
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Coordinates energy retrofitting assistance for schools; and
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Facilitates building training and careers skills training.
Stronger Energy Infrastructure:
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Streamlines the U.S. LNG export approval process;
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Enhances cybersecurity safeguards;
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Modernizes the U.S. electric grid; and
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Maintains the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
Improved Accountability:
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Reforms Department of Energy Loan programs to protect taxpayers;
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Prioritizes grid reliability; and
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Cleans up redundant and out of date regulations
Increased Domestic Energy Supply:
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Promotes geothermal and hydropower development;
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Provides for marine and hydrokinetic renewables;
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Authorizes research to develop methane hydrates;
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Modernizes critical mineral policies to end America’s reliance on foreign suppliers; and
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Ensures a well-trained workforce
Upgraded Conservation
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Permanent reauthorization of the Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF); and
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Creates a new fund to address maintenance backlogs at national parks.
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