House Republicans to Introduce Repeal of Costly Heat Law

Press Release

Friday, December 13, 2024

The latest report from the independent Vermont Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is further evidence that Act 18, commonly referred to as the Clean Heat Standard, needs to be repealed.

The latest draft report by the PUC states “It is not feasible for all Low- and Moderate-Income households to participate in the program’s early years – and those not able to participate would face higher heating costs….” and House Republicans agree.

House Republican Leader, Representative Pattie McCoy reiterated, “Vermonters sent a message loud and clear in the November elections. We need to return affordability to Vermont. Our caucus is fully behind a repeal of this legislation that was enacted by the supermajority Democrats through an override of Governor Scott’s veto in 2023.”

Act 18, which has already cost taxpayers several million dollars to set up a complicated and expensive system of fuel charges and credits, is set to return to the full legislature in the upcoming session to approve the final regulations. A report this fall by an independent consultant hired by the Vermont Department of Public Service estimated the cost of heating oil could increase anywhere from $1.79 to $4.00 per gallon.

Rather than considering such rules, House Republicans urge the legislature to repeal the entire law and start over with affordability foremost in mind.

McCoy also added, “Not only do we need to start over with Act 18, we need to remain vigilant that it is not replaced with some other new carbon tax scheme.”

###

True to my campaign promise, I will sign on as co-sponsor of this bill.