Committee Passage Clears Path for Historic Energy and Climate Bill

Washington, DC (May 21, 2009) – The Energy and Commerce Committee today passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES), a historic bill that will make significant investments in clean, renewable energy and reduce carbon pollution that causes global warming. Under the leadership of Chairman Henry Waxman (D-CA) and Subcommittee Chairman Ed Markey (D-MA), the bill cleared a major hurdle with support from a coalition of members of Congress from all parts of the nation.

Following is a statement from Frances Beinecke, President of the Natural Resources Defense Council:

"Meeting Chairman Waxman's Memorial Day goal, this critical House committee has taken an historic step to unleash clean energy and rein in global warming pollution. That so many environmental, business, labor, and other organizations have joined with members of Congress to pass energy and climate legislation is a testament to its immense economic and energy potential.

"Chairmen Waxman and Markey have done the heavy lifting and cleared the path for this bill to move through the House and to the Senate. We urge Congress to move quickly on one of President Obama’s top priorities, by passing legislation that will jumpstart our economy, curb global warming, create jobs, and protect our national security.

"While some in Congress have tried to block this bill, they are only keeping America tied to the failed policies of the past. As the bill moves to the House floor, we need to build on the progress made in the Energy and Commerce Committee and enact this important legislation.

"By making investments in clean energy, we will create whole new industries, millions of good-paying American jobs, and generate hundreds of billions of dollars in energy savings and benefits to low-income families. It will also demonstrate American leadership as nations work to reach a strong international agreement to protect our planet in Copenhagen later this year. "