Resolves

Chapter 59

S.P. 447 - L.D. 1284

Resolve, Regarding the Organization and Administration of Energy Policy Responsibilities within State Government

Sec. 1. State energy policy office; review and recommendations. Resolved: That the Executive Department, Office of Energy Independence and Security, in consultation with the Energy Resources Council and the State Planning Office, shall conduct a review of the current policy-making and administrative structures and functions within State Government relating to energy policy and, on the basis of this review, develop recommendations regarding the organization of these structures and functions within a clearly defined statutory framework that provides for well-coordinated and efficient formulation, management and administration of state energy policy. The review must include, but is not limited to, a comprehensive examination of the various energy-related powers, duties, responsibilities and programs that currently exist in various departments and offices of State Government and their associated budgets and staffing requirements. The recommendations must address the statutory establishment of an office or other entity within State Government dedicated to the development and implementation of energy policy and the administrative and fiscal implications of and justification for various options for such an office or entity; and be it further

Sec. 2. Energy independence policy initiatives. Resolved: That the Executive Department, Office of Energy Independence and Security shall, as part of the review and recommendations required under section 1, consider how the State may advance the development of new energy independence policy initiatives to support biofuels, renewable energy, cogeneration and green communities that reduce reliance on fossil fuels and increase reliance on renewable energy; and be it further

Sec. 3. Report; legislation. Resolved: That, by January 1, 2008, the Executive Department, Office of Energy Independence and Security shall submit a report regarding the review required by section 1, including its findings and recommendations, to the Joint Standing Committee on Utilities and Energy. The report must include draft legislation to implement the recommendations. After its review of the report, the joint standing committee may submit legislation to the Second Regular Session of the 123rd Legislature relating to the subject matter of this resolve.