Great quotes from today’s Senate floor debate on HB 1291, which saw republicans Scott Renfroe, Kevin Lundberg and Shawn Mitchell collaborate with democrat Lois Tochtrop to save money for Xcel ratepayers.  Two pro-consumer amendments that closely mirror SB 236 and SB 237 were defeated.

• Senator Lois Tochtrop: “I’m buying stock in snuggies because that’s all my constituents will be able to afford if this bill [HB 1291] passes.”
• Senator Kevin Lundberg: Arguing in support of an amendment to save Xcel ratepayers $132 million, “I find it funny that I am arguing in favor of the moderate approach.”
• Senator Shawn Mitchell: “This isn’t a state implementation plan. It’s a payoff plan to special interests.” He got the gavel for that one.

HB 1291 passed second reading. Xcel Energy wins again.