§17281 National media campaign

Summary

The Secretary must create and run a national media campaign for the 10-year period starting December 19, 2007. The campaign’s goals are to raise energy efficiency across the U.S., highlight how efficiency helps national security, and cut oil use. The work can be done by the Department or by hiring nationally known media firms through competitive contracts, or by agreements with national institutes, businesses, or nonprofits to fund, make, and distribute monthly TV, radio, and newspaper public service announcements. Up to $5,000,000 is authorized for each fiscal year 2008 through 2012. At least 50 percent of each year’s money must go to the oil-reduction part of the campaign. At least 85 percent of the funds available each year must pay for advertising (buying time/space, creative and talent costs, testing, and measuring results); the rest can cover admin. The Secretary must send Congress an annual report covering the campaign’s plan, results (including total and per-person energy use), ad buying plans, safeguards against waste or fraud, and all contracts or agreements used.