The bill, authored by state Reps. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton) and F. Dale Grubb (D-Covington), increases the maximum term for guaranteed energy savings contracts between state or local government departments and public utility providers from ten to twenty years. "This bill allows institutions like public schools to enter into long-term contracts with energy providers," said Rep. Thompson. "When they're guaranteed savings over 20 years, those savings spill over to the taxpayer." The bill, House Bill 1254, includes energy, water and operational costs. Governmental departments could also enter into utility efficiency programs with qualified providers for twenty years. Current laws allow a maximum of ten or fifteen years, depending on the type of utility. The bill passed out of the House with a 95-0 vote. It now faces the Senate. "Bills such as this one are all part of an overall goal to improve government efficiency and save money for taxpayers," said Rep. Thompson. "This session, I hope to eliminate regulations that entangle tax dollars in unnecessary red tape, especially when cost-saving measures could be implemented."
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