American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009
AMERICAN CLEAN ENERGY AND SECURITY ACT OF 2009 -- (House of Representatives - June 26, 2009)
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Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. I want to commend Mr. Rangel and Mr. Waxman and Mr. Markey, who have attempted against long odds to forge a consensus on this legislation.
Mr. Speaker, the bottom line to this legislation as proposed today is it will make America less dependent on foreign oil. And, remember, despite protestations to the contrary from our friends on the other side, there is an element on the other side who rejects to this day the concept of climate change and global warming. It is very difficult to find middle ground if there's a side that simply rejects the science of our times. Part of our job in leadership in governing is to make some difficult decisions and, indeed, some very tough choices. This climate-change bill we have before us today makes those tough choices for our future and our children's future. It's in the interest of America, but just as importantly, it's in the interest of the world. America leads the way, and this is an opportunity for us to reclaim that leadership.
This legislation will lead our consumers, our businesses, and our communities towards smarter, cleaner, and more efficient energy use. And it will not be alone. Strong trade enforcement mechanisms will mean that the American business community will not be disadvantaged by importers who skirt the rules. This long legislation is a vote for innovation and environmental stewardship.
I almost would be remiss if I didn't mention this as well. For the previous 8 years, the administration rejected the idea of global warming. The other side was given fancy talking points to grudgingly acknowledge that perhaps it might be happening but to spin the argument that it presented a peril to our times. You would be hard pressed to find scientists anywhere across this globe who have not at least forged a consensus on identifying and defining the problem. As is always the case in public life, it is difficult once definition has settled in to offer a solution. This legislation today offers a solution.
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