Senate EPW Committee Takes Important Step Towards Climate Legislation

Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act passes through committee

November 5, 2009

Washington, DC –– The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee today approved the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act (S. 1733).

The president of American Rivers, Rebecca Wodder, made the following statement:

“The Senate took an important step today towards passing vital climate legislation that will strengthen the economy, protect communities, and secure clean water for future generations. Passage of the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act through the Environment and Public Works Committee clears the path for full Senate consideration of the bill and brings us closer to much needed limits on global warming pollution.”

“American Rivers applauds Chairman Boxer and the Environment and Public Works Committee for passing this critical legislation. Senators Boxer, Cardin, Whitehouse, and other committee members deserve special thanks for including strong natural resource and community adaptation measures that will help communities prepare for more extreme floods, droughts, and water pollution in a changing climate. In particular, we appreciate the bill’s emphasis on using green strategies, such as water efficiency, protecting and restoring wetlands and floodplains, and other non-structural measures that are more effective, cheaper, and provide more benefits for people and ecosystems.”

“We cannot afford to delay any longer in addressing climate change, and the committee’s passage of this bill is a positive step forward. We look forward to working with all Senators to enact comprehensive energy and climate legislation that will help ensure clean water and healthy communities for generations to come.”

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American Rivers is the leading conservation organization fighting for healthy rivers so communities can thrive. American Rivers protects and restores America's rivers for the benefit of people, wildlife and nature. Founded in 1973, American Rivers has more than 65,000 members and supporters, with offices in Washington, DC and nationwide.