Washington, D.C. - Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the discussion draft of comprehensive energy legislation released this morning by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Henry Waxman and Subcommittee on Energy and Environment Chairman Ed Markey:

“The discussion draft of comprehensive clean energy legislation released this morning by Chairmen Waxman and Markey is a strong starting point.  The President has called for landmark legislation to launch a clean energy economy that will build prosperity and balance the needs of the American people and industry.

“As was the case with the Energy Independence and Security Act in 2007, House leaders will work closely with the committees of jurisdiction to advance this critical legislation.

“The final legislation will: create millions of new, green jobs; increase our national security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil; increase American competitiveness by making us a technology leader; meet the climate crisis with sound science; and reduce overall energy costs for consumers and businesses.

 “We will continue to hear the best ideas about how to tackle the challenge from a broad range of stakeholders, with the intention of having legislation on the House floor this year.

“The scope of this effort is historic and overdue.”