Renner Barsella, renner.barsella@sierraclub.org, 217-390-9394
DES MOINES, IA -- Today, SF2311, the controversial bill gutting energy efficiency programs and reducing regulatory oversight for the Iowa’s electric utilities, became law with Governor Reynolds signature. Consumer advocates say the new law will significantly increase costs for electricity customers. The law prompted widespread opposition from Iowa families and businesses. Despite broad and vocal opposition from constituents the bill passed both state houses, becoming law today with Governor Reynolds’ signature. The law enacts changes that are in direct conflict with what the Governor had proposed in her State Energy Plan.
In response, Iowa Sierra Club Chapter Director Pam Mackey Taylor issued the following statement:
“Once an innovative leader when it comes to energy efficiency and clean energy, this law is a significant step backwards for Iowa. The programs that are being gutted helped Iowan families and businesses save billions of dollars on their electric bills over the last several decades. Now the utility companies have proven they can take advantage of our elected officials to pad their profits at the expense of hardworking Iowans. Alliant Energy and MidAmerican have sold themselves as innovative business leaders for clean energy, but their support for this bill shows their true colors. Iowans can now look forward to higher energy costs.”
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The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3 million members and supporters. In addition to helping people from all backgrounds explore nature and our outdoor heritage, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.