| |
The American Clean Energy & Security Act
In June, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a sweeping energy and greenhouse gas reduction bill, the American Clean Energy & Security Act (H.R. 2454). Many employers across the country opposed this bill because of the increased cost and regulation that it would impose upon American manufacturers, businesses and consumers. Employers are also concerned that if the United States acts unilaterally, the competitive damage would be especially severe since China, India and other nations do not limit their own emissions.
Employers are committed to working with Congress to establish sensible and responsible federal climate change policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but these policies must maintain a competitive playing field for American companies.
As lawmakers continue to consider this legislation, it is critical to contact them now and urge them to oppose this type of legislation. American manufacturers and other employers already face high energy, labor and health care costs that impede their ability to compete in the global market. The 'cap and tax' proposals being debated by Congress would push American energy costs to some of the highest in the world.
American manufacturers and other employers support the development and use of competitive clean energy technologies and robust energy efficiency improvements. Policies that recognize the robust voluntary actions of industry to reduce energy intensity and improve efficiency to promote emissions reductions will benefit America’s economy. However, mandates on the use of specific, economically uncompetitive technologies will potentially harm our economy. America’s employers are committed to working with lawmakers to establish climate change policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining jobs in America and a competitive playing field for U.S. companies in the global marketplace.
Background on energy and climate change legislation
- Last year, recognizing the significant economic harm that would be caused by a cap-and-trade program, Congress voted against the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act.
- On June 26, 2009, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act, also known as the Waxman-Markey bill, by a vote of 219-212. This bill establishes a cap-and-trade program requiring greenhouse gas emissions reductions over 2005 levels of 17 percent by 2020, and 83 percent by 2050. It covers facilities and industries with 'carbon allowances' based on past emissions. Companies that emit less carbon dioxide than permitted by their allowances can trade (sell) their excesses to those that do not. The bill also includes a renewable electricity standard and energy efficiency programs.
- America’s manufacturers and other employers are dedicated to greater environmental sustainability. However, many oppose the Waxman-Markey bill because it does not promote global participation, unnecessarily increases demand on natural gas and creates a multitude of conflicting regulations for manufacturers.
How Congress Can Help
- Adopt legislation that would expand innovative, domestic energy production and increase investment in nuclear energy and clean coal and other low-carbon energy technologies.
- Oppose unworkable cap-and-trade schemes that would result in fewer jobs and higher energy prices.
More information
Economic Impact of the Waxman-Markey American Clean Energy and Security Act
The American Clean Energy & Security Act: What’s in the bill?
|
|
