House committee votes to boost federal energy efficiency

The House Government Reform Committee unanimously approved a measure Thursday aimed at boosting the federal government's energy efficiency.

The measure (H.R. 1346), the Federal Government Energy Management Improvement Act, sets energy reduction goals for federal buildings, requires alternate fuel for federal vehicles and mandates the purchase and use of energy efficient products.

Sponsored by Rep. Michael Turner, R-Ohio, the bill also mandates a government study to determine the possible energy savings by allowing federal employees work at home via telecommunications in lieu of working in offices.

Turner's bill received strong bipartisan support. The ranking Democrat, Rep. Henry Waxman of California called the measure a "win-win situation for all."