Rep. Pete Stark’s Courageous Stand on Climate Change

Statement of Brent Blackwelder, Friends of the Earth President, on June 26, 2009 regarding Rep. Pete Stark’s vote on the American Clean Energy and Security Act: Today, Congressman Pete Stark took a courageous stand in voting against the American Clean Energy Security Act of 2009. His statement to the House of Representatives described Friends of the Earth’s own opinion of the bill. Rep. Stark said: ‘We have the opportunity and the responsibility to confront catastrophic global warming with bold action. Congress should seize that opportunity by passing legislation that would end our addiction to fossil fuels, prove our leadership to the world, and build a foundation for long-term prosperity. This legislation falls short of these goals. Many have said that this vote is a historic one that we will be judged by. In my view, history will judge this legislation as a missed opportunity. I urge my colleagues to oppose the bill in its current form and work to bring a truly progressive bill to the floor.’ Rep. Stark’s vote strengthens the ability of progressive groups like Friends of the Earth to continue to fight for global warming legislation that will truly transform our society. We thank him for his courage and look forward to working with him to achieve truly efective global warming legislation. ###