Associated Press
Monday, January 12, 2009

Gov. Timothy M. Kaine is proposing legislation aimed at promoting green jobs and energy efficiency.

On Monday, Kaine backed bills to expand grant programs and give tax credits and exemptions for companies that produce energy efficient goods and equipment.

Kaine put $2 million in his budget to expand an incentive program for businesses that manufacture low and no-carbon energy sources.

Kaine backed legislation to encourage biofuels production from sources that are not also used for food. He also lauded bills to establish an income tax credit for those who install alternative power systems and one to exempt those systems from sales taxes.

Kaine made his announcement along with other officials at the Virginia Beach headquarters of a company that installs solar panels.