Arguing that energy efficiency and rebate programs sell themselves, Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-Texas), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, offered an amendment to strip the $12 million in funding for a public information campaign from H.R. 5019, the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act.

“Energy efficiency sells itself - consumers use less electricity and see lower electricity bills. Major manufacturers and retailers know how to sell their products; they’ve been doing it for years. They certainly know how to market Energy Star rebates, why would this be any different? Furthermore, if Members are worried their constituents won’t know about the program, they can spread the word on their own – include it in their e-newsletters, Tweet about it, post it on their Facebook pages, or mention it during district events,” Burgess said.

“The provision in this bill that uses $12 million for an advertising and public awareness campaign is wasteful. Texas recently conducted a similar state rebate program which was wildly popular and sold out within the first hour it was up and running, and without spending millions of dollars of state funds to advertise the program.”

Under the Silver Star program in the bill, the $12 million for advertising could instead be used for:

• 8,000 attic insulation rebates 
• 24,000 window film installation rebates 
• 48,000 natural gas tank rebates 
• 96,000 energy efficient door rebates 
• 240,000 storm window rebates

“If the goal of this bill is to make American homes more energy efficient, let’s not use this $12 million to advertise the program. Let’s use it to help more Americans buy energy efficient products – it’s a no-brainer.”

The Burgess amendment failed 190-228, and Burgess voted “no” on final passage of the bill.

To view the video of Rep. Burgess debating his amendment on the House floor, click here.


Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D., is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations, and a member of the Health and Energy & Environment subcommittees. He is also a member of the bipartisan, bicameral Joint Economic Committee. Prior to becoming a member of Congress in 2002, Congressman Burgess practiced medicine in North Texas for over 25 years.