LANSING (AP) – The Republican-led Michigan House is balking at federal regulations that will phase out the making and sale of incandescent light bulbs beginning in 2012.
The House passed a measure Thursday by a 62-46, mostly partly line vote that would allow the old-style bulbs to be made and used in the state even after the ban kicks in. The bulbs likely would have to be made and remain in Michigan.
The measure advances to the Senate.
Democrats who opposed the bill said there aren’t any Michigan companies making the bulbs.
Banning incandescent bulbs would force consumers to use more energy efficient bulbs. But opponents of the federal ban see it as an intrusion on customer choice.
Republican Rep. Tom McMillin of Rochester Hills calls it the “Right to Light” bill.
Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
