Rep. Baca Supports Landmark Energy Legislation
Press Release
Rep. Baca Supports Landmark Energy Legislation
Congressman Joe Baca (D-Rialto) today backed the Energy Independence and Security Act, landmark energy legislation that will make America more energy independent, cut energy costs for families, reduce global warming, and grow our economy. The historic legislation was passed by a vote of 314 - 100 and will be sent to the President, who is expected to sign the bill into law tomorrow.
"For too long, Congress has failed to address our energy challenge, and consumers in our Inland communities have paid the price," said Rep. Baca. "Today's historic legislation makes energy reforms a reality - leading to greater efficiency and lowering energy costs for American families."
The Energy Independence and Security Act includes new fuel economy standards for cars and trucks. These standards will increase vehicle fuel efficiency to 35 miles per gallon by 2020the first congressional increase in 32 years - and slash U.S. oil consumption by more than 4 million barrels per day by 2030. The legislation also expands the use of American-grown biofuels to 36 billion gallons in 2022. All told, the bill will cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 24 percent by the year 2030.
The legislation will also save money for American consumers and strengthen the economy. Increased vehicle fuel efficiency will save American families $700 to $1,000 a year at the pump. The bill also includes new building, appliance, and lighting efficiency standards, which will save consumers an estimated $400 billion through 2030.
"Families are paying too much at the gas pump and our nation is weakened by our dependence on oil from the Middle East," said Rep. Baca. "This bill will help reduce our reliance on foreign oil, save money for families and help fight global warming."
Additionally, the development of biofuels and support for cutting-edge energy research will create many new jobs. To help with the construction and upkeep of new energy technologies, the bill creates training programs to prepare a workforce for energy transition jobs - such as solar panel manufacturing and green building construction. It is estimated that investments in renewable energy can create 3 million new jobs over the next 10 years.
"With this legislation, the Democratic Congress is fighting for the American people," concluded Rep. Baca. "Instead of providing more tax breaks to Big Oil, this reform-minded bill lowers energy costs for consumers, and works to create a cleaner tomorrow for our children to enjoy."
The bill is backed by a broad coalition of individuals and organizations from the environmental, labor, faith and business communities.
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