Politics

One Step Closer To A Clean Energy Economy

By Karina

Tonight, the Energy and Commerce Committee approved the American Clean Energy and Security Act (HR 2454) after four days of debating the bill:

Building on the energy provisions in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which included doubling renewable energy production, renovating public buildings to make them more energy efficient, and providing tax incentives to spur energy savings and the creation of clean energy jobs?this legislation works both to jump-start our economy with new clean energy technology and to cut harmful pollution that leads to climate change. It invests in innovation here in America to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.

This comprehensive energy legislation will create millions of new clean energy jobs, save consumers hundreds of billions of dollars in energy costs, promote America’s energy independence and security, and cut global warming pollution. This bill protects consumers and industries in all regions of the country, and will make the United States a world leader in new clean energy technologies.

Speaker Pelosi on tonight’s passage:

The bold action taken by the Energy and Commerce Committee tonight brings us one step closer to comprehensive reform. Chairman Waxman and Chairman Markey have built consensus across regional differences and developed bold legislation to create millions of new jobs and provide a strong foundation for economic recovery. The progress made by the committee has been tremendous and I congratulate every member of the panel.

The legislation the Energy and Commerce Committee has passed preserves our manufacturing base, protects consumers, strengthens our national security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil and keeps America number one by making our country a world leader in new technologies.

The other committees of jurisdiction will soon bring forward their own contributions that will further strengthen this critical legislation. I have asked these committees to work together and with the leadership to finalize this clean energy jobs package with the goal of having this package on the House floor as soon as possible.

Chairman Henry Waxman (D-CA):

Subcommittee Chairman Ed Markey (D-MA):

Rep. Mike Doyle (D-PA) talks about how addressing climate change will positively impact American workers, including steelworkers in his district:

Reps. Betty Sutton (D-OH) and Bruce Braley (D-IA) speak in support of an amendment to create a “Cash for Clunkers” vehicle trade in program:

More resources:

Energy and Commerce Committee>>

5/18/09 - Day One Summary (including archived video)>>

5/19/09 - Day Two Summary (including archived video, amendment information, and votes)>>

5/20/09 - Day Three Summary (including archived video, amendment information, and votes)>>

5/21/09 - Day Four Summary (including archived video, amendment information, and votes)>>

Chairman Markey’s Twitter feed>>

Video highlights from the Select Committee on Global Warming>>

Bill Summary

Bill text

Letters in Support

List of Supporters

Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute Text

EPA Analysis

Full post as published by The Gavel on May 22, 2009 (boomark / email).