As originally published in the the News Gazette on February 5, 2018.
I would like to commend Congressman John Shimkus for leading the effort to pass the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. As an advocate for clean energy, I know these tax cuts will help energy innovators thrive.
Illinoisans may have noticed the tax cuts increase their take-home pay, but as The News-Gazette recently reported, utility companies are passing along some of their savings to consumers (“Ameren asking to pass on $50M in savings from tax cuts to customers,” Jan. 24).
That’s great news, and there is undoubtedly much more to come.
For the clean-energy industries, the tax reform bill will help facilitate growth because of reduced overhead and full first-year expensing.
It’s important that America stay on the leading edge of innovation, especially in clean energy, so consumers can save money as technologies mature and enhance energy efficiency.
The clean-energy sector supports 3 million jobs and is a vital component to our country’s future economic growth.
Congressman Shimkus is an avid supporter of clean energy, and the tax cuts are certainly another step forward.
HEATHER REAMS
Managing director
Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions
Washington