The GOP Case for “Cash for Caulkers”

Some Republicans in Congress are finally getting the message that the environment matters. They are supporting the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act, or “Cash for Caulkers”.

Many at FrumForum have been arguing that Republicans should take the lead on environmental issues, and some Republicans in the congress are finally listening.  A bi-partisan bill, designed to cut carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency, called the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act (H.R. 5019) or “Cash for Caulkers” passed the House last Thursday by a vote of 246 to 161.

While this is largely a Democratic initiative, some Republicans who care about governing and not just winning elections have stepped forward to support this measure.  The bill was co-sponsored by Vern Ehlers of Michigan, a Republican known for his work on the environment.  If passed in the Senate, it will be a solid victory for Republicans who care about the environment and will demonstrate that they are not simply the “Party of No.”

The $6 billion Bill includes two programs: Silver Star and Gold Star.  The Silver Star program offers homeowner incentives (rebates) for up to $3000 to purchase American made energy saving products (such as windows, doors, and insulation).  The Gold Star Program is designed to facilitate long-term energy savings by offering rebates up to $3000 for households that cut their energy consumption by 20% with an additional $1000 for every subsequent 5% up to $8,000.

The program will save 3 million Americans $200-$500 a year on energy costs which amounts to billions of dollars in savings over the next decade.  It will create 150,000 to 200,000 green and construction jobs, while making the earth a little greener.  The Bill has the support of thousands of businesses and environmental groups around the country.

Republicans who care about environmental protection and who are serious about governing and not just looking to indulge audiences in some abstract rhetoric about the Founding Fathers or limited government ought to support this market-based approach to improving energy efficiency, creating jobs, and slashing carbon emissions.