WASHINGTON — Republicans in Congress are flipping the dimmer switch on a law that sets new energy-savings standards for light bulbs.
They’ve reached a deal to delay until October enforcement of standards that some fear will bring about the end of old-style 100-watt bulbs. GOP lawmakers say they are trying to head off more government interference in people’s lives. But environmentalists and the light-bulb industry say the move is not too bright.
Language postponing enforcement of the light-bulb law — it was set to take effect Jan. 1 — was included in a massive spending bill that funds the government through September.
The House passed the measure Friday, with approval expected today in the Senate.
Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, said the light-bulb delay shows Congress is listening to the American people.
“Americans don’t want government standards determining how they light their homes,” Upton said.
Sen. Jeff Bingaman, D-N.M., chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, said the move would have little practical consequence because it does not affect a 2007 law that requires manufacturers to produce or import more efficient bulbs. The five largest light-bulb manufacturers have already switched to making and selling the more efficient bulbs, Bingaman said, so the enforcement delay only serves to confuse the public. The Associated Press
