Latta introduces Energy Star legislation

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Bob Latta (R-Ohio) issued the following statement after introducing bipartisan legislation with U.S. Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vermont) aimed at promoting continued development of energy efficient appliances through the Energy Star program. H.R. 4856, the Energy Star Program Integrity Act will strengthen the Energy Star program by bringing certainty and clarity to program participants.

“Expanded use of energy efficient technologies is an important component of our national energy strategy,” said Latta. “Across our nation, the Energy Star program has proven to be a successful tool in advancing the development and use of energy efficient technologies.

The program has also promoted economic expansion and job growth for participating manufacturers. In Ohio’s Fifth Congressional District, he said, with more than 2,500 jobs are directly tied to manufacturing Energy Star labeled appliances, resulting in personal stability for these employees, a more responsible use of domestic energy, and cost savings to hardworking Americans and businesses.

“The Energy Star Program Integrity Act is a product of bipartisan discussion and collaboration with impacted stakeholders that balances the program’s incentives and agency oversight with consumer protections,” Latta noted.

“Whirlpool is proud to be a leader in the Energy Star Program,” said Jeff Noel, corporate vice president for Whirlpool. “Consumers have benefited from the Energy Star Program for more than 20 years and we support Congressman Bob Latta’s efforts to strengthen and improve the integrity of the program.”

Under current procedures, when an Energy Star product is disqualified from the program, a reinstatement process is initiated whereby the manufacturer and administering agency resolve the cause for disqualification. Within this process, it is determined whether any consumers have been harmed and if compensation is warranted.

Since this process has proven successful, the Energy Star Program Integrity Act simply codifies the existing process. This modest fix will help to deter costly class action lawsuits that could chill participation in the Energy Star program.