Earth Day

Floor Speech

EARTH DAY -- (House of Representatives - April 22, 2009)

(Mr. POLIS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. POLIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight and support the many communities, volunteers, teachers, students, and individuals celebrating Earth Day and their efforts to protect our environment. For 39 years, Earth Day has remained an annual opportunity to remind ourselves of our daily, ongoing responsibility.

Our Nation has experienced an environmental renaissance as of late with business, popular culture and political leadership getting ``green'' and becoming galvanized by the challenge of climate change.

The industries and communities of my district in Colorado are on the front lines of a changing climate--from a shrinking ski season and fewer tourist dollars to an increased threat of wildfire and water resources stretched even thinner. My district's economic well-being has a lot riding on a healthy environment.

Mr. Speaker, I commend all of those who will work, volunteer, teach, and learn about the ways we can protect our Earth and economy. I rise in strong support of all of those who work to make Earth Day every day and who understand the fact that our communities and economies are firmly rooted in a healthy environment.

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