Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Chief Deputy Whip and a subcommittee Chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, voted today in favor of H.R. 9, the Climate Action Now Act. The legislation passed the House by a vote of 231-190. The bill takes the first steps in protecting the planet, by keeping the United States in the Paris Climate Agreement, demands real action from the Trump Administration on climate change, and lays the foundation for further, effective action by Congress.
Congresswoman Schakowsky made the following statement regarding the legislation:
“Climate change is the existential challenge of our time and this government should never put corporate profits and special interests ahead of the health of our children and grandchildren. Climate change isn’t just a Democratic or Republican issue—it’s a global issue. And the Paris Climate Agreement was a landmark step toward global solutions. That is why it is so vital to remain part of it.
“The United States must assert itself as the global leader in the effort to combat climate change – and we must lead by example. Our states are leading by example. Illinois is on track to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions 26 to 28 percent by 2025 compared to 2005 levels.
“Every minute this Congress spends not working to combat climate change is a minute closer to the tipping point. Our own government’s scientists are showing that the earth is warming, the seas are rising, and the carbon in our air is increasing.
“Our young people understand the future of our plant and our economy is green jobs and green technologies, not the fossil fuel industries, as my colleagues on the other side of the aisle would like you to believe. As I said on the House floor this week, I hope my Republicans friends do not end up on the wrong side of history and have to live with the shame that they are destroying the planet for their children and grandchildren. We must act now, and this bill is an important step forward.”
Video of Congresswoman Schakowsky’s statement on the floor of U.S. House of Representatives is available HERE.