COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina legislators are throwing a lifeline to traditional incandescent light bulbs as they try to trump federal energy standards.
The House on Thursday approved legislation with a 76-20 vote that would allow companies to manufacture the bulbs in South Carolina and sell them here.
The measure needs routine final approval next week before heading to the Senate.
Federal energy standards have manufacturers turning to compact fluorescent, halogen and LED bulbs. Manufacturers phase out traditional 100-watt incandescent bulbs next year.
Proponents say more efficient bulbs cost too much and they don't like the light they provide.
The Incandescent Light Bulb Freedom Act allows manufacturers to make the traditional bulbs and stamp them as "Made in South Carolina." They could only be sold in the Palmetto State.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWACH