2016-12

Consumer Protection Resolution

SENATOR MOISES “MO” DENIS (NV) ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT TASK FORCE

WHEREAS, The National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL) supports the ability of residential and business customers to generate their own electricity through solar panels (i.e., distributed generation) as a key pathway to energy democracy whereby communities can own solar panels and be partners in the nation’s electricity infrastructure; and

WHEREAS, solar success in America is the promotion of innovation and procompetitive behavior in solar markets, and;

WHEREAS, Solar Leasing Disclosure Statements should be streamlined statements designed to help solar customers understand the terms and costs of solar leasing and not intended to be a substitute for reading the contract, lease and other documents associated with a solar transaction; and

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in an effort to make going solar as effortless and streamlined as possible, the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL) recommends members become educated on solar financing options available, contracting terms to be aware of, and other useful tips; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NHCSL will work with the Federal Trade Commission and other appropriate organizations to develop a guide for homeowners that provides insight on solar financing, including leases, loans; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NHCSL believes that the protection of consumers should be a priority for both state and federal governments and

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that NHCSL encourages state policymakers to increase their awareness to ensure consumers are protected and accountable for their respective states, and to consider introducing consumer protection legislation in their State Legislatures; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that NHCSL work through the local, state and federal agencies to ensure that the solar leasing industry will be closely monitored and appropriately regulated to ensure the protection of our communities.

THIS RESOLUTION WAS ADOPTED ON AUGUST 11, 2016, AT THE NHCSL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE & BUSINESS BOARD OF ADVISORS MEETING HELD IN CHICAGO, IL.

Sponsored by: Senator Moises “Mo” Denis (NV)