My Rep response to my letter.
Thank you for contacting me about the American Clean Energy and Security Act, H.R. 2454. I appreciate hearing from you on this important issue.
As a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee I am playing an active role in charting a new energy future for our country that will strengthen our economy, create new green jobs, and protect working Vermonters and Americans. I share your concern that Congress address climate change in a way that ensures that consumers and businesses are not unfairly burdened by measures to control carbon pollution.
I voted for H.R. 2454 that sets the goal of cutting carbon emissions 80 percent by the year 2050. Through H.R. 2454, the cost to consumers of transitioning to a prosperous, clean energy economy will be offset by assistance to local utility companies, investment in energy efficiency, and by direct consumer assistance. In addition, H.R. 2454 will reinvest American energy dollars currently exported overseas in American jobs and businesses. A recent Congressional Budget Offices analysis of the legislation determined that the overall cost to households will be less than the cost of a postage stamp a day, which does not include the projected financial benefits from increased energy efficiency, national security and green job creation.
Again, I greatly appreciate hearing the ideas and concerns from Vermonters as Congress continues to debate the most effective approach to address this challenge. Please continue to be in touch and I hope to see you in Vermont soon.
Sincerely,
PETER WELCH
Member of Congress