July 2014
NEW MEXICO JOINS NATIONAL MOVEMENT TO PRICE CARBON
Positive Force Challenging Gridlock
U.S. Congressman Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) on Wednesday, July 30th introduced the “Healthy Climate and Family Security Act of 2014.” The attached bill caps global warming pollution, requires fossil fuel companies to pay for their emissions, and rebates that money to all Americans in a fair and transparent way that actually increases the net incomes of a large majority of American families!
“There is a positive force that is challenging gridlock in Washington – and it is collective action on climate,” says Mariel Nanasi, Executive Director, New Energy Economy. New Energy Economy is part of a national coalition of grassroots organizations – not necessarily national big green groups – that support the views of the people who want bold action on climate. “We don’t engage in the drama of gridlock; now is the time to respond to the most pressing issue facing humanity. Finally there is a courageous Representative who is truly representing the will of the public with a plan that is simple, fair, and achievable,” adds Nanasi.
The Healthy Climate and Family Security Act would cut carbon pollution 20% below 2005 levels by 2020, 40% by 2030, and 80% by 2050. It requires oil, coal and gas companies to buy pollution permits for 100% of the carbon they bring into the economy. It does not allow for potentially complex carbon “offsets” and it prevents Wall Street involvement in the carbon market. Then, in equal-size payments, it returns 100% of the revenue raised from the permit auction to all US residents with a valid Social Security number. The bill will spur economic investment and create a large number of jobs in solar and wind energy.
New Mexico organizations were amongst the first groups to endorse the legislation: 350.org, Earth Care International, New Energy Economy, New Mexico Interfaith Power and Light, Physicians for Social Responsibility – New Mexico, and Renewable Taos (New Mexico). “In New Mexico, we live close to the land and see ourselves as part of nature, not separate from nature, and therefore want to be at the forefront of stopping the polluters from spoiling life for our children,” says Nanasi.
Tell Congress you support the bill by signing a petition here: http://climateandprosperity.org/
Read the bill here.
Read a statement of support for the climate bill, endorsed by a variety of groups across the nation:Van Hollen bill sign on statement
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