Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Bill is Introduced in the Senate

WASHINGTON (September 30, 2009) – The Natural Resources Defense Council welcomes the introduction of the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act by Senators Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and John Kerry (D-MA).

Following is a statement by Frances Beinecke, President of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):

“This bill will help curb climate change, strengthen our economy, and make our country more secure. It will help generate jobs, reduce our reliance on foreign oil and create a healthier future for all of us. And it will put Americans back to work, making our country the world leader in the green technologies that are driving growth in the global marketplace.”

“We are optimistic that the calls for clean energy and climate solutions across the country -- including support from business leaders, national security experts, entrepreneurs, labor, faith groups, veterans, and many others – will lead to action by the full Senate.”

“This is the right step at the right time. It confronts the growing problem of global warming head-on – before it’s too late to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. It calls for a 20-percent cut in carbon emissions by 2020. That’s a strong and achievable goal. It will reduce the carbon pollution that causes global warming, while accelerating the move to a clean energy future for our country.”

“A new analysis from UC Berkeley confirms that clean energy and climate legislation can strengthen our economy and create jobs. According to the report, comprehensive energy legislation with strong efficiency measures can create as many as 1.9 million jobs between 2010 and 2020.”