NRDC President Frances Beinecke Backs Obama's Call to Pass Clean Energy Legislation that Puts America Back to Work

WASHINGTON (January 27, 2010) – In his State of the Union address tonight, President Obama sounded a call to action on comprehensive clean energy and climate legislation in the Senate, according to experts at the Natural Resources Defense Council.

Following is a statement by NRDC President Frances Beinecke:

“President Obama issued a clear and unmistakable call to action tonight, charging the Senate to pass the comprehensive clean energy and climate legislation we need to put Americans back to work and lay the foundation for a generation of prosperity, efficiency and security. 

“The president could not have been more clear: This legislation will jump-start economic growth, reduce our reliance on foreign oil and roll back the pollution that threatens our future. The Senate should pass it without delay.

“With jobs as his top priority, Obama made an urgent case for clean energy legislation that promotes conservation as well as wind, solar and other sources of renewable power. 

“That means immediate work for millions of carpenters, electricians, steelworkers, machinists, computer engineers and other Americans across the country. It means investment in the next generation of energy-efficient cars, homes and workplaces. And it means U.S. workers will produce the clean energy technology driving global growth.

“The president is right on the money. His plan will get Americans back on their feet. Now it's our job to let our Senators know where we stand. This is our moment. This is our charge, too. It’s time to pass comprehensive clean energy and climate legislation and put America back to work."