Bright Idea

It’s refreshing to see Congress concentrate on the important issues facing our nation. Like repeal of the light bulb efficiency law. With all the bluster this week about imminent financial disaster if the government debt ceiling isn’t raised, it restores my faith in the House of Representatives that they found the time to openly debate and vote on rescinding the federal phase-out of incandescent light bulbs. Viewed as a symbol of government regulatory over-reach, Congress unfortunately fell short of the 2/3 majority needed to repeal legislation signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2007. Never mind that compared to compact fluorescent bulbs, old (or “classic” as I prefer) style bulbs are less efficient – using more energy to generate heat than light – Congress was taking a bold stand for Americans to make their own important lighting choices. I remain optimistic. House GOP leaders may soon try again to bring the repeal back for another illuminating floor vote – this time under procedures that require only a simple majority. Let’s hope so! But prospects for passage are not favorable in the Senate, controlled by less enlightened Democrats, the true dim bulbs in this riveting debate.