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Senator Jim Ritchie Introduces "Energy Independence For SC's Future

January 31, 2007
Contact: Kendall Robinson
robinsonk@scsenate.org

Ritchie Seeks to Create a Sustainable and Energy Independent South Carolina

COLUMBIA, SC - Today, Senator James H. "Jim" Ritchie, Jr. (R-13), Majority Whip, held a press conference in the South Carolina State House to announce a series of four bills, collectively entitled "Energy Independence for South Carolina's Future." Together, they address our growing dependence on foreign energy, the rising costs of energy on our state, the effects of a building's indoor environment on its residents, and protecting the beautiful environment for which South Carolina has become famous.

Joining him at the announcement were fellow colleagues who are co-sponsoring the legislation and members from prominent state business and conservation groups. Supporters and co-sponsors include:

* Senator Glen McConnell, Senate President Pro Tempore
* Senator John Courson, Senate Education Committee Chairman
* Senator Phil Leventis
* Senator Larry Martin, Senate Rules Committee Chairman
* Senator Wes Hayes, Senate Ethics Committee Chairman
* Senator Greg Gregory, Senate Fish, Game and Forestry Committee Chairman
* Senator Thomas Alexander, Senate Banking and Insurance Committee Chairman
* Senator Scott Richardson
* Senator Gerald Malloy
* Senator Vincent Sheheen
* Senator Chip Campsen
* Senator Ray Cleary
* Senator Nikki Setzler

* American Institute of Architects, SC Chapter
* Coastal Conservation League
* Conservation Voters of SC
* Palmetto Conservation Foundation
* SC Chapter of the Sierra Club
* SC Wildlife Federation
* U.S. Green Building Council, SC Chapter

Senator Ritchie said "together, these strategic initiatives will create a South Carolina that is no longer defenseless against unpredictable energy costs by establishing strong incentives for private investors, sustainable construction and environmental standards for state buildings and our public schools, and new alternative fuel goals for our state's transportation fleet.

As a result, no longer will we determine a building project's worth merely by what it costs today; instead, we will also focus on how our buildings affect the well being of the South Carolinians who work and learn there, its effects on our environment, and the burden each building's energy costs imposes on taxpayers."

"This package sets a new course for sustainable construction in South Carolina. By adopting leading energy efficiency standards, we will actually save the taxpayers money, reduce energy and water usage, and improve the interior environment for employees and our school children," Ritchie said.

"Energy Independence for South Carolina's Future" is a series of four bills, listed below:
S. 376: Energy Independence and Sustainable Construction Act of 2007
S. 362: Energy Independence and Sustainable Schools Act of 2007
S. 377: Energy Independence and Sustainable Investment Act of 2007
S. 368: South Carolina Alternative Fuels Act

Senator Ritchie continued, "While this endeavor seeks to relinquish the Middle East's control over our energy needs and preserve South Carolina's natural resources for our children and grandchildren, it ensures the proper balance between these goals and the well being of our economy and the business community. When these bills become law, South Carolina will be at the forefront of finding meaningful and balanced solutions to conservation and economic growth. This will enhance South Carolina's future as a highly desirable place to live, work and raise a family."

Several influential associations have already pledged their support to this initiative, and have written letters of support to members of the Senate. To obtain a copy of these letters or for more information, please contact Kendall Robinson at robinsonk@scsenate.org.
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