DOVER – Senate Republican Leader Gerald Hocker (R-Ocean View) and Representative Bryan Shupe (R-Milford) have introduced Senate Bill 65 (SB 65), legislation that would remove Delaware from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). The bill aims to provide relief to Delaware households and businesses burdened by rising energy costs.
Delaware initially joined RGGI to reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, with a target of a 10% reduction by 2019. Despite having far surpassed this goal, the state remains in RGGI while Delawareans continue to face some of the highest electricity costs in the region. Lawmakers argue this has negatively impacted economic growth and affordability.
“Delaware has done its part in reducing emissions, yet families and businesses are still paying the price for a program that has outlived its purpose,” said Senator Gerald Hocker. “It’s time to remove this unnecessary burden and ensure that energy remains affordable for all Delawareans.”
Representative Bryan Shupe, the bill’s House prime sponsor, echoed these concerns, highlighting the economic impact of high energy costs. “When energy prices are artificially inflated by government mandates, it slows business growth and reduces job opportunities,” said Shupe. “We can protect our environment while also making Delaware a more competitive place to live and work.”
SB 65 has been assigned to the Senate Environment, Energy, & Transportation Committee and is expected to receive a hearing in the coming weeks.
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