U.S. Senators John Kerry (D-MA) and Olympia Snowe (R-ME) on Friday introduced aggressive bipartisan global warminglegislation.
“For years now on climate change, Washington keeps postponing the reckoning until the day after tomorrow. The world is changing and now the reckoning is real. Scientists are now warning that we are moving closer to several ‘tipping points’ that within a decade could make it impossible to avoid irreversible damage to the planet,” said Senator Kerry. “Each passing day brings yet more evidence that we are facing a climate crisis that demands immediate action. Senator Snowe and I are working to bridge the ideological divide to develop this bipartisan proposal and offer a roadmap for the future. Quite simply, this is a plan that actually does what the science tells us we have to do. Senator Snowe and I will be working to change the dialogue in Congress on this issue and make progress instead of just making noise.”
“America has led the charge in overcoming every challenge of the 20th Century, and we must continue to lead the international community as we confront the growing problem of dramatic climate change in the 21st Century. By transforming our world energy strategy, and focusing American ingenuity and entrepreneurship we can realize the potential of clean renewable power and stop the progress of greenhouse gas emissions and global warming while protecting the American economy. As a world leader we must reengage in international climate negotiations, and demonstrate that we are serious about stopping this threat now rather than abrogate our responsibility to the next generation of Americans. The most costly action would be inaction,” Senator Snowe said.
Global Warming Reduction Act Highlights:
* Requires the U.S. freeze emissions in 2010 and then calls for a gradual reduction each year to 65 percent below 2000 emissions levels by 2050. The bill achieves these targets through a flexible, economy-wide cap-and-trade program for greenhouse gas emissions.
* Requires that passenger vehicles reduce their global warming pollution.
* Includes measures to advance technology and reduce emissions through clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency in the transportation, industrial and residential sectors.
* Requires the US to derive 20% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020.
* Includes a resolution expressing the urgent need for President Bush to re-engage in international climate negotiations.
* Establishes a National Climate Change Vulnerability and Resilience Program to help communities assess their vulnerability to climatic changes and shorter term climatic variations – including changes and variations resulting from human activities – and better prepare for it.
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