Energy & Environment

Energy

Energy policy and climate change are at the center of our nation’s economic, national security, and environmental challenges. I believe that it is more important than ever for America to adopt an aggressive and innovative energy strategy. I support the development of alternative sources of energy in order to retain our competitive advantage and ensure a promising future for our children and grandchildren. The development of green technology and green jobs will spur tremendous growth and offer long-term relief to the American economy by making us less dependent on energy from unstable areas of the world.

I believe in implementing policies that encourage investment in innovative technologies that make our economy more productive; an education agenda that trains young Americans in math, science, and engineering, so that they can compete for 21st century jobs; and forward-thinking trade policies that open markets for U.S. businesses, farmers, and workers.  For these reasons, I supported the H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES).  This legislation will revitalize our economy by creating millions of new jobs, increase our national security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and preserve our planet by reducing the pollution that causes global warming.  I also support the Obama Administration in their efforts to help create five million new jobs by strategically investing $150 billion over the next ten years to catalyze private efforts that would build a clean energy future, ensure 10 percent of our electricity comes from renewable sources by 2012, and 25 percent by 2025, and create millions of new green jobs.

I am also a firm believer in giving a hand to the most vulnerable among us.  As energy prices continue to rise and threaten the health of American families in extreme weather, I will continue to support the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program.  LIHEAP protects the safety of fixed-income seniors and low-income families, especially those with young children and disabled members by making their energy bills more affordable. For more information on Missouri’s LIHEAP program and contact information for agencies that offer assistance, please visit http://liheap.ncat.org/profiles/Missouri.htm.

The Environment

Protecting our natural resources is an essential investment in our future.  Our planet remains our most precious resource and is in danger of being destroyed by human habits.  Our nation’s stunning parks, dramatic landscapes, and historical landmarks must be preserved for the enjoyment and benefit of future generations.  Right in our very own backyard lie the path of influential explorers Louis & Clark, the world-renowned St. Louis Zoo and Science Center, the Jefferson National Memorial Museum of Westward Expansion, and Forest Park, a 1300-acre jewel at the heart of our city.

Creating a political landscape that will guarantee a sustainable future, create green jobs, and secure our most vital resources is a mission to which I am deeply dedicated.  To this end, I am a co-sponsor of H.R. 1310, the Clean Water Protection Act, which aims to prevent pollutants and land-forming fill material from depleting our limited sources of clean water.  I take very seriously and stand proudly in the fight to protect our greatest resource—our magnificent planet.