America’s workers commend Chairman Henry Waxman and the members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee for their leadership on the crucial issues of addressing climate change, investing in green technologies and creating jobs. Passing the American Clean Energy and Security Act out of committee was an important step forward, and as currently marked up, it makes significant, job-creating investments, while attempting to minimize impacts on existing workers.

The AFL-CIO supports cap-and-trade legislation that takes a balanced approach towards an economy wide-program and prevents foreign competitors from getting advantages over American companies. The American Clean Energy and Security Act also ensure that the nation maintains a diverse energy portfolio that includes renewable energy, fossil fuels, nuclear and hydro-electric.

The legislation also attempts to protect individual industries and geographical regions from being disproportionally or adversely affected. We are encouraged by the work of the Committee and hope that Congress will continue to move this legislation.

Congress should continue to improve the legislation. We recommend that the Energy Information Administration (EIA) do a full economic analysis before the bill is voted on and make the results available to Members and the public.

Addressing the issues of climate change and energy policy is of immense importance. We must do it properly to prevent harmful effects on America’s workers.

Contact:  Eddie Vale (202) 637-5018