Reporting H.R. 2171 Out of Committee (Passed 26-16. View Roll Call Vote)
This bill would establish a common sense, streamlined policy for the development of clean geothermal energy resources that will create jobs and provide low cost energy to American families.

Labrador Amendment – Expands Area Available for a Geothermal Test Project (Agreed to by Voice Vote.)
This amendment increases the amount of land disruption allowed for exploration from 1 acre to 5 acres, among other technical changes.

Markey Amendment #002 – Certify Impact on Thermal Features (Failed 15-26. View Roll Call Vote)
This amendment would require the Secretary of the Interior to certify that the project will have no adverse impacts on geysers within the National Parks System before project approval. It is an unnecessary amendment as the current law requires the Department of the Interior to take those provisions into account prior to leasing.

* For complete legislative action for the July 13, 2011 Full Committee Markup, click here.