ST. PAUL, MN—Representative Jim Newberger, R-Becker, is the chief author of several provisions included in the
omnibus Job Growth and Energy Affordability bill which was passed off the House floor Wednesday evening. Newberger, who serves on the Job Growth and Energy Affordability committee, said his provisions were aimed at saving Minnesota jobs, and keeping energy costs low for Minnesota families. The bill passed on a bipartisan vote of 73-56.
"Minnesota families are the true winners if we adopt an 'all of the above' energy standard," Newberger said. "I will continue fighting to save good-paying jobs in my district and across Minnesota, and to put a stop to harmful policies that threaten thousands of jobs and higher energy bills for Minnesota families."
Provisions authored by Representative Newberger include:
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Legislative approval of the state clean power plan: Newberger's provision would require legislative approval before any carbon-reduction plan can be sent to the Environmental Protection Agency. Under current law, only the Governor is required to approve the plan. According to some estimates, the new EPA rules could cost Minnesota up to 15,000 jobs.
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Adding large hydropower to the renewable energy standard: Under current law, large hydropower is not counted toward the state's renewable energy goals. Newberger's provision would allow the state to count renewable hydropower and potentially encourage further investment in this clean power source.
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Repeal of North Dakota coal ban: Last year, Democrats passed legislation essentially banning the importation of coal from North Dakota, a law that was successfully challenged in court by the State of North Dakota under the Commerce Clause. Attorney General Lori Swanson has appealed the court ruling. Newberger's provision would reverse the ban that was put in place, eliminating the need for legal costs associated with the state's appeal.
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