WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH), member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Energy and Power Subcommittee, today released the following statement applauding the U.S. Senate’s passage of H.R. 5705, the Propane Education and Research Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation he sponsored with Congressman Tim Walz (D-MN) to address some of the winter heating challenges experienced in Ohio and throughout the Midwest last year. The legislation is headed to the President’s desk for his signature.
“During the winter months, heat is a matter of survival not a matter of convenience,” said Latta. “Last year, we were faced with propane shortages that threatened the lives and livelihoods of many living in Ohio and throughout the Midwest. The Propane Education and Research Enhancement Act addresses some of the challenges experienced last winter in an effort to avoid another disaster. I applaud the Senate for taking swift action on this legislation and encourage the President to expeditiously sign it into law.”
The Propane Education and Research Enhancement Act of 2014 clarifies Congress’ intent in the Propane Education and Research Act (PERA), requiring the Department of Commerce to use proper data to calculate consumer prices. It would also allow the Propane Education and Research Council to improve training for distributors and consumers to help mitigate the negative effects of propane prices spikes.
