Just a week after failing to move the Renewable Energy and Job Creation Act of 2008 into formal debate, the U.S. Senate has once again blocked the extension of the solar investment tax credit by squashing the progress of H.R.6049, the Energy Independence and Tax Relief Act.
The Senate failed on a cloture motion to proceed to the act by vote of 52-44. Majority Leader Harry Reid voted ‘no’ to retain procedural control and immediately filed for cloture, which allows him to bring the vote up again today. However, it is uncertain if and when the legislation will be reconsidered.
‘I am deeply disappointed that the Senate has once again failed to reach a bipartisan consensus that would allow this important legislation to move forward,’ says Rhone Resch, president of the Solar Energy Industries Association.
‘Time is running out. I strongly urge the Senate to reach a bipartisan consensus and pass this legislation,’ he adds.
