White House to Vote on Controversial Energy Bill

The White House is expected to make its final decision today on a controversial energy bill Republicans say could "reduce the supply of American-made energy".

The bill proposes to bring in new efficiency standards for home appliances, lighting and the expanded use of ethanol, among other things.

House Republicans have urged President George Bush to veto the bill, saying it would increase US dependence on imported energy. White House spokespeople said administration officials shared similar concerns, according to a report in the Houston Chronicle.

They fear the bill could discourage US oil and natural gas production and will reduce the nation's energy independence.

Democrats argue, however, that conservation should focus beyond reductions in oil and gas drilling and on renewable energies.