Press Release - Congresswoman Laura Richardson

For Immediate Release
June 26, 2009

Contact: Michael Eagle
(202) 225-7924

Congresswoman Richardson Hails Passage of the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009

-Bill will provide refund checks for many people in our community-

Washington, DC—Congresswoman Richardson hailed passage of the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 (H.R.2454), legislation that will create millions of jobs, enhance America’s energy independence, and protect the environment.

“The American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 stands to be the cornerstone piece of energy and environmental legislation for generations to come,” Congresswoman Richardson stated. “The landmark legislation will help revitalize our economy by creating millions of new jobs, assist businesses in transitioning to the next century, protect our national security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and preserve our planet by reducing the pollution that causes global warming.”

The EPA has indicated the legislation would cost the typical American household less than the cost of a postage stamp a day, or less than $140 a year. However, those with limited incomes may be eligible for rebates and refunds.

Other important highlights of the bill include:

CREATING JOBS: The bill will unleash private sector investment in numerous clean energy sectors to create millions of new jobs that can’t be shipped overseas and make America the global leader in clean energy technology.
MAKING US MORE ENERGY INDEPENDENT: The bill will cut the use of oil and petroleum products by two million barrels a day in 2030 - as much oil as we currently import from the Persian Gulf.
REDUCING POLLUTION: The bill reduces dangerous pollution by limiting emissions from electric utilities, oil refineries, and other major sources.
PROTECTING CONSUMERS: This bill will invest in cost-saving energy technology to save consumers money. The bill also protects consumers with price spike protection, energy tax credits, and cost-saving technology.
COMPREHENSIVE AMERICAN ENERGY SOLUTIONS: The bill promotes all forms of clean energy, including:

wind, solar, geothermal, biomass;
support for private investments in nuclear power;
new clean energy technologies and energy efficiency;
coal technology with carbon capture and sequestration; and
consumer friendly, high mileage cars and electric vehicle technology.

The bill has support from members of Congress from all regions of the country and from industry and environmentalists. The legislation was backed by a coalition that includes electric utilities, consumer groups, car companies, manufacturers, environmental organizations, small business and labor organizations, among many others.

Congresswoman Richardson is a Democrat from California’s 37^th Congressional District. She is a member of the House Committees on Transportation & Infrastructure and Homeland Security. Her district includes Long Beach, Compton, Carson, Watts, Willowbrooke and Signal Hill.

XXX