March 8, 2010

Washington, D.C. – Nevada Senators Harry Reid and John Ensign introduced legislation that will ensure that Nevada receives its share of geothermal royalties, which have previously been directed to the federal government instead of to Nevada communities.

“Rural counties in states like Nevada with large percentages of public land rely heavily on revenue sources like PILT and geothermal energy production,” Reid said.  “This amendment will restore the counties’ share and ensure critical funding for programs like public safety, transportation and education.”

“Nevada has been losing out on hundreds of thousands of dollars each month, and ensuring that our state receives its share of geothermal royalties is of the upmost importance,” said Ensign.  “Our legislation will ensure that our state and counties receive 75% of the geothermal royalties that we need and deserve.”

Their amendment will send 50% of geothermal royalties back to the state, while 25% will go to the county, and the remaining 25% will go to the federal government.