Engel Cosponsors 100% Clean Energy Legislation

Press Release

Congressman Eliot Engel today announced his original co-sponsorship of the 100% Clean Economy Act of 2019, legislation that sets a nationwide goal of achieving a 100 percent clean energy economy by 2050.

The legislation--which defines clean energy as net-zero climate pollution across all sectors of America's economy--directs federal agencies to use all existing authorities to put the United States on a path toward meeting the achievable 100 percent clean energy economy goal, while remaining technology-neutral. Additionally, it directs the EPA to evaluate agency plans, make recommendations to strengthen them as needed, and report each year on progress toward a 100 percent clean energy economy.

"Our climate crisis requires us to move our entire energy sector in a bold new, cleaner direction," said Engel. "We need to think big when it comes to cutting our carbon emissions. Earlier this year, as Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I quickly moved legislation through the House to keep the United States in the Paris Climate Agreement. Our focus now must shift from stopping the warming trend to reversing it, fast. I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of the 100% Clean Economy Act, just as I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of the Green New Deal, and I am firmly committed to the goal of transitioning our country to 100% clean energy as soon as possible."

The 100% Clean Economy Act of 2019 lays out principles for federal agency action, including, but not limited to:

improving public health, especially for low-income and rural communities, communities of color, Tribal communities, and other vulnerable populations;
enhancing job creation and ensuring an equitable transition for workers in industries and communities affected by changes in the economy;
providing benefits for consumers, small businesses, and rural communities; and
preparing communities for the impacts and risks of climate change

Source