Cutting the Department of Energy budget by 5 percent would have saved $1.5 billion
Yes, the elected House Republicans majority is trying to downsize government. But not all their efforts are successful.
Last week, the House, including most Democrats joined by many Republicans, defeated several high-profile amendments to trim a $30.6 billion water and energy spending bill. For example, the House rejected an amendment by Rep. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., to cut the Department of Energy budget by 5 percent, or $1.5 billion.
It also rejected by large margins efforts by Rep. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., to cut advanced research funding by the Energy Department as well as fossil energy research and development. In addition, it rejected a proposal by Rep. Paul Broun, R-Ga., to cut all funding for energy efficiency and renewable energy research and development.
Bruce Alpert can be reached at balpert@timespicayune.com or 202.857.5131. Jonathan Tilove can be reached at jtilove@timespicayune.com or 202.857.5125.
