The vote is on the adoption of H. Res. 177, disapproving President Reagan's proposal which would have, in effect, removed $4.5 million in Fiscal Year 1983 funding for technical assistance for energy efficiency and renewable energy resources, such as solar power. Energy conservation and renewable sources are often the cheapest, quickest and cleanest way to meet the nation's energy needs. The Reagan Administration has sought to dismantle almost every federal program that promotes conservation and renewables. Reagan proposed cuts of 98% in federal funding for conservation and 86% for renewable energy. Though Congress has not gone along with the President fully on this, large funding cuts have in fact been enacted, and the President has succeeded in dismantling four of the five federal agencies which provided technical assistance to consumers, small businesses and low income groups.

In 1983 the President attempted to eliminate the fifth such government agency -- the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) -- by "deferring" all of its remaining spending authority. NCAT has done an excellent job of providing hands-on technical aid, publishing readable technical manuals and brochures, and conducting important studies on energy efficiency and safe energy alternatives. Reagan's proposed deferral would also have eliminated funding for research under the Technology and Consumer Products Program designed to increase the efficiency of combustion heating furnaces. The TCP Program conducts important research that industry is simply not doing, and in the past has succeeded in dramatically increasing the efficiency of fluorescent lighting.

Resolution adopted 280-107; May 26, 1983. YES is the pro-environmental vote.