Bush Signs Fuel Efficiency, Energy Bill

President Bush has signed into law a bill that will raise vehicle fuel economy standards and require an increase in ethanol use by fuel suppliers. In signing the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, Bush called the legislation "a major step forward in expanding the production of renewable fuels, reducing our dependence on oil, and confronting global climate change." Some highlights of the bill include setting of the national fuel economy standard for cars and trucks at 35 miles per gallon by 2020 (which will increase fuel economy standards by 40 percent and save billions of gallons of fuel), and increasing the supply of alternative fuel sources by requiring fuel producers to use at least 36 billion gallons of ethanol in 2022. The Associated Press reports that the bill also "requires improved efficiency standards for lighting, commercial and government buildings, and appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers and freezers," including a 70 percent increase in light bulb efficiency.

• Fact Sheet: Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (WhiteHouse.gov)
• AP: Bush Signs Auto Fuel Economy Bill
• Environmental Law News (FindLaw)
• Gas Mileage Guide (FuelEconomy.gov)
• Buying a Car (FindLaw)