The U.S. House of Representatives last week approved H.R. 4785, the Rural Energy Savings Program Act of 2010, by a vote of 240 to 172.

The legislation, also known as “Rural Star,” is designed to create jobs and deliver meaningful energy savings for consumers in rural communities by providing access to capital and efficient technologies.

Earlier in the week, NAHB sent a letter of support to the bill’s lead sponsor, House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.), stating that H.R. 4875 will help improve the energy efficiency of the 130 million existing homes that comprise the nation’s housing stock by “providing low-interest loans to consumers to install energy-efficient technologies that will save energy for American families, create jobs and reap environmental rewards.”

Speaking on behalf of the legislation on the House floor, Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) cited NAHB’s letter of support and asked that it be submitted into the official record.

A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate.

To view the legislation click here and type the bill number in the box in the center screen.

For more information, e-mail Elizabeth Odina at NAHB, or call her at 800-368-5242 x8570.