Delaney Files Legislation to Help States Respond to Climate Change, Reduce Pollution

Statement

Congressman John K. Delaney (MD-6) has filed legislation designed to help states combat climate change and meet new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements on greenhouse gas emissions. In June, the EPA proposed new regulations for existing power plans under section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act. The State's Choice Act mandates that the EPA allow a state level excise tax as a compliance option.

"Climate change is a threat to our economy, our public health, our food supply and our national security; it's imperative that we respond before it is too late," said Congressman Delaney. "The good news is that we can turn this challenge into a massive economic opportunity by unleashing the greatest scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs in the world right here in the United States and put the power of the market behind them. As an entrepreneur with deep private sector experience, I understand that markets are very powerful and that if we create the right incentives, industry will respond very quickly. Allocating the true cost to greenhouse gas pollution is the most effective and efficient way of reducing emissions. The State's Choice Act will give states another means of meeting new EPA requirements, encourage market-driven solutions and facilitate a new approach that can be used to spur economic growth at the same time. We would expect the revenues generated from a state level excise tax on carbon, when combined with regulatory savings, will allow states to reduce other taxes to citizens and businesses and invest in key growth priorities like education and infrastructure."

Earlier this month, Delaney wrote to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy, asking that the agency give "strong consideration to allowing states the additional compliance option of placing a price on greenhouse gas emissions."

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