House Passes Amendment by Congressman Panetta to the Climate Action Now Act
Amendment highlights U.S. leadership in combating climate change
WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives adopted an amendment by Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley) to H.R. 9, the Climate Action Now Act.
The Climate Action Now Act prohibits federal funds from being used to withdraw the United States from the landmark Paris Climate Agreement. It also requires the administration to develop and publicize a strategy to meet greenhouse gas emission reductions. Congressman Panetta's amendment recognizes the critical role that American leadership played in encouraging the widespread international adoption of the Paris Agreement. The House will vote on passage of the bill today.
"United States leadership was crucial in the widespread adoption of the Paris Climate Agreement. Withdrawing our nation from the agreement undermines U.S. global leadership on combating climate change and threatens the future of our planet," said Congressman Panetta. "Passing this bill and rejecting the plan to leave the agreement benefits our home on the central coast of California and our nation."
The landmark Paris Climate Agreement would significantly slow the progress of global warming by slashing carbon dioxide and other emissions from the burning of fossil fuels. Under the Obama Administration, the United States committed to reducing its emissions by 26 to 28 percent from 2005 levels by 2025. The earliest date the U.S. could withdraw from the Paris Agreement is early November 2020. Furthermore, until that time, the U.S. is obligated to uphold our commitments under the agreement.
WATCH: Speaking on the House Floor prior to the vote to adopt my amendment.
