Issue Position: Energy and Environment

Issue Position

Energy And Environment

Our nation's approach to energy resources, and the subsequent effects on the environment, are critical components of how we keep the American economy strong. Investment in alternative energy, appropriate use of existing resources, and a focus on a clean and thriving environment will ensure our businesses remain on the cutting edge of technology, our families stay healthy, and our most beautiful and special places remain for generations to come.

Ending record levels of unemployment and investing in job creation are an integral part of the nation's recovery from the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. Government support for clean and renewable energy will ensure that our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren experience the same clean and sustainable planet the current generation has enjoyed, while providing us with good paying jobs here at home that cannot be outsourced overseas. It is crucial that the U.S. lead the world in the development of green jobs and green technology, as we have in so many other industries.

Fuel standards are a simple way that we can reduce human impact on our environment. Improving fuel efficiency will mean dollars saved at the pump, less reliance on oil, and a chance to invest in clean technology and create jobs. I strongly support increasing fuel standards for our vehicles.

During my 15 years in Congress. I have supported progressive environmental initiatives and have consistently earned 100 percent positive rating from the League of Conservation Voters on their National Scorecard, which is based on a list of key votes on environmental protection issues. Legislation that I've cosponsored includes:

* H.R. 1084, the Fracturing Responsibility and Awareness of Chemicals Act of 2011, which will protect our water supplies from the toxic chemicals used in the hydraulic fracturing process;
* H.R. 1916, America's Red Rock Wilderness Act, to protect areas of Utah's wilderness by designating them as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System; and
* H.R. 2030, the Green Infrastructure for Clean Water Act of 2011, which creates competitive grants for institutions of higher education to establish research centers for green infrastructure

Great Lakes Restoration Initiative

I have consistently supported projects like the GLRI that ensure our environment and natural resources are maintained and preserved well into the future.

The Great Lakes provide entertainment, commerce, and drinking water for the Second Congressional District and the region. In past sessions of Congress, I've consistently voted to support legislation to protect these important freshwater resources and to make sure that they remain as pristine as possible for future generations. This has included the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Basin Water Resources Compact and the Great Lakes Legacy Reauthorization Act. Furthermore, as a senior Member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to do everything in my power to ensure that programs like GLRI receive adequate and appropriate funding.

Rest assured that I will continue to support initiatives that provide us with a clean environment, as well as green and sustainable energy.

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