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Washington, D.C. – As House Democrats prepared to unveil a wide-ranging Energy Independence Day package that moves America in a new direction and lessens our dependence on foreign oil, Tenth District Congressman Donald M. Payne today joined a majority in the US House of Representatives to pass legislation to protect our environment and reduce global warming. The 2008 Interior-Environment Appropriations bill was approved by a vote of 272-155 and includes support for programs to clean up hazardous waste sites, ensure every American has clean drinking water, and protect our natural treasures.
“Congress has a responsibility to protect our environment for future generations,” said Payne. “I am proud to support legislation that will help rid our communities of environmental hazards, provide clean water and preserve and improve our national parks.”
The 2008 Interior and the Environment Appropriations bill includes new resources and support for environmental and conservation programs including:
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Funding for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, which supports projects that improve drinking water quality in communities across America.
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Sewer and Water Grants to support the construction and improvement of water systems in local communities.
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New resources for the Superfund hazardous waste clean-up program.
The legislation also makes climate change research a key priority, boosting federal investment in climate change research at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of the Interior by 53 percent. Additionally, the bill responds to the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in April by compelling the Environmental Protection Agency to begin developing a process for regulating greenhouse gases.
“Climate change is a serious threat to our environment and our nation,” added Payne. “The important research supported in this legislation is essential to reducing global climate change and responding to this global challenge.”
Finally, the bill includes new resources to support the preservation and protection of America’s natural treasures. In addition to making the improvement of National Parks a top priority, the legislation increases funding for National Wildlife Refuges, rejects proposed cuts to the National Forest Service and supports wildfire preparedness and suppression programs.
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