Providing for Consideration of H.R. 2454, American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009

Floor Speech

PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF H.R. 2454, AMERICAN CLEAN ENERGY AND SECURITY ACT OF 2009 -- (House of Representatives - June 26, 2009)

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Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the rule.

President Obama, in commenting on the American Clean Energy and Security Act earlier this week, cited that this legislation ``will open the door to a better future for this nation.''

I strongly agree with President Obama, but I must also stress our responsibility to ensure all individuals will be provided the opportunity to participate in the new green economy.

That is why I offered the Lee Amendment to this legislation, which would have authorized legislation I have introduced in the House entitled the Metro Economies Green Act, or MEGA, in order to establish targeted grant programs to support green economic development, job training and creation.

Inclusion of the Lee Amendment to H.R. 2454 would have provided valuable opportunities for those who can benefit from good paying green collar jobs the most--urban youth of color, the unemployed, and those among our neighbors who have just faced incredible hardships in life.

Unfortunately the Lee Amendment was not made in order. However, I look forward to working with my colleagues in the future to expand access to high-paying, career-term green jobs that represent a much needed pathway out of poverty for millions of individuals across this country.

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