By providing unprecedented investments in solar, wind, and biomass, the American Clean Energy and Security Act aims to ensure that 20% of all energy production in America comes from renewable sources by 2020.  In addition, through a series of increased efficiency standards, the legislation could reduce total energy consumption by 5% by 2020, and 12% by 2030.  A 5% reduction alone would be the equivalent of removing 57 million cars off the road for a year.  Finally, the legislation confronts global warming causing emissions by cutting them by 83% below recent levels by 2050.

Below is a statement issued by Woolsey following the vote:

“As a mother and grandmother, the health of our earth is at the top of my list of concerns so that my kids and grandkids aren’t left with the messes we’ve created.  For too long, we have ignored the warning signs that human activity is having a negative impact on our environment.  It’s up to us to change our ways, use our brains, and stop our bad behavior.

“The facts are clear. The time for debate on whether or not global climate changes exists is over.  What we need to do now, is address the problem before it’s too late.  We need to listen to the world scientific community, and act immediately to curb our carbon emissions. That’s why I support H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act.

“The single most important part of this bill is that it puts in place the federal structure to, for the first time, seriously regulate carbon emissions that are adversely affecting our climate.  And with proper oversight and science - with the right people in charge - this bill will do what we.

“Now, it’s never easy to change the status quo. There’s a lot of money out there for people who would continue the practices that we know are harmful to all of us.  And we all know how that money can be used to muddy the issues and derail the will of the people.

“The plain fact of the matter is this:  Without this bill, without a strict regime for controlling carbon emissions, big oil and big coal win.  And the environment, endangered species, our kids, our grandkids, you, and I will be the losers.

“Now, people point to China and India, and all the carbon they emit as a big problem too, and they’re right.  But the United States leads the world in carbon emissions and, as the world leader, it’s our responsibility to lead the world in a new direction.  The burden falls on America to set the tone.  By instituting a cap and trade system, we are showing the rest of the world that we’re serious about addressing the issue, and proving to them that it can be done.

“I’m not willing to risk our future by doing nothing. I urge my colleagues to support this bill, take a stand, and lead the world in addressing the issue of global climate change.”