Washington, D.C. - Speaker Nancy Pelosi sent the following letter to House Republican Leader John Boehner today in response to his recent correspondence on global warming.
“In December the President signed the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, which passed with strong bipartisan support….This legislation is a critical first step toward addressing our nation's energy independence and reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” she wrote.
Below is a text of the letter:
June 5, 2008
The Honorable John A. Boehner
House Republican Leader
H-204, The Capitol
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Leader Boehner:
Thank you for your letter yesterday on the issue of climate change.
Last year, I tasked ten Committee Chairmen to bring forth comprehensive energy legislation by July 4, 2007. Our Chairmen met that deadline, and in December the President signed the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, which passed with strong bipartisan support. This historic energy legislation includes an increase in vehicle fuel efficiency to 35 miles per gallon in 2020 - the first congressionally-mandated increase in more than three decades - and promotes the use of more advanced American biofuels. This legislation is a critical first step toward addressing our nation's energy independence and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The Energy and Commerce Committee is taking the lead on further legislation to combat the global climate crisis. That Committee, and others, have been holding hearings on how best to reduce the conditions contributing to global warming. This is a complex issue and we will continue to proceed through the legislative process. Additionally, we will work to develop other innovative legislation that addresses high energy costs and our transition to a more fuel-efficient economy.
Again, thank you for your letter, and I look forward to working together on behalf of America's working families.
best regards,
NANCY PELOSI
Speaker of the House
