Workers Call for Protection of Solar-Panel Tax Credit at Montana Demonstration
BILLINGS — On Tuesday, solar panel workers gathered outside the offices of Montana’s two U.S. senators to express their concerns over the potential impact of President Donald Trump’s proposed Big Beautiful Bill on their industry. Company vehicles from solar energy firms were parked outside the Billings offices of Senators Tim Sheehy and Steve Daines, both Republicans, as part of demonstrations held in Billings, Bozeman, and Missoula.
Brad Van Wert, president of the Montana Renewable Energy Association, explained that the proposed legislation seeks to end tax credit incentives for solar panel construction by the end of this year, thereby hastening the gradual phase-out of the program.
“We can’t just have them go off a cliff. We need a glide path to give the businesses that work in this space the opportunity to execute their business plans, continue to provide jobs, and support Montanans,” said Van Wert.
According to Van Wert, the solar industry has been expanding, with more contractors entering the field and creating additional jobs. “Here in Montana, there are 900 people who work directly or indirectly in the renewable energy industry,” he noted.
Justin Pearce, CEO of A-Team Roofing and Solar, shared his experience of expanding his roofing business by incorporating solar panel installations. “When we were just a roofing company, we had four, five, six employees. Now, with the addition of solar, we’ve grown to 31 employees, not including all the electricians and suppliers we work with. This change has made a significant difference for us,” Pearce explained.
Pearce acknowledged that while many workers involved in the movement understand the necessity of reducing government spending, they require time to adapt their businesses. “We’re fine if the tax cuts go away; just don’t slam the door on us,” he urged.
Van Wert mentioned that the Montana Renewable Energy Association has previously communicated with lawmakers regarding the Big Beautiful Bill. If the demonstration does not sway opinions, they plan to rally more supporters in the future. “We’ve talked to Sen. Daines and Sen. Sheehy. We’ve even been to Washington. They recognize the value of this and understand the jobs that are at stake,” Van Wert stated.
The legislation in question is part of Trump’s expansive budget proposal, referred to as the Big Beautiful Bill. Both Daines and Sheehy have shown their support for the proposal, and a full Senate vote is anticipated this week. The House passed its own version of the bill last month, but several provisions have been modified as the Senate finalizes its version.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/montana-solar-panel-workers-rally-for-tax-credit-protection-amid-legislative-threats/
