November 8, 1979
Page 31644
Mr. MUSKIE. Mr. President, the Senate now is considering the Talmadge amendment of S. 932. This amendment incorporates many provisions of S. 1775, the Agricultural, Forestry, and Rural Energy Act of 1979, and addresses an important national. need for the development of small scale energy production from renewable resources.
The emphasis on small scale production would be particularly attractive to farmers and rural communities. Increased energy self-sufficiency at the farm level would assure the uninterrupted production of food during any future oil shortage. At the national level, the benefits from this type of energy can be significant in decreasing our dependence on imported oil.
We have much positive evidence on the potential for energy production from renewable resources. In Maine, wood has long been an important energy source in our pulp and paper industry and even in home heating. This amendment will help to insure that our Nation achieves the full potential of its renewable energy resources.
In the amendment before the Senate there are several technical changes from the original Agriculture Committee reported bill which are of budgetary significance. These changes have not altered the substance of the bill but have removed some potential backdoor spending provisions.
This action will assist both the Budget and Agriculture Committees in their mutual responsibility to oversee and control Federal spending.
Mr. President, I want to commend Senator TALMADGE and the Agriculture Committee for incorporating the Budget Committee recommendations in their amendment and I recommend its adoption.
Mr. TALMADGE. Mr. President, I urge the adoption of the amendment.
The PRESIDING OFFICER. The question is on agreeing to the amendment of the Senator from Georgia, as amended.
The amendment (UP No. 751), as amended, was agreed to.