New Climate Change Bill Proposals

Sacramento, CA — Senate Democrats have announced a package of bills dealing with climate change.  Governor Jerry Brown has already called for an increase in the use of renewable energy to 50 percent in 15 years.

Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon [D-Los Angeles] says, “This climate leadership package sets the foundation for a clean-energy economy to flourish.  Clean tech companies in California are creating more jobs and investing more money than competitors in any other state, and these policies will keep this momentum going and expand its reach.”

The package of four bills has environmental initiatives including directing pensions to divest from coal companies and setting up a committee to advise on how to create clean energy jobs.  Senate Minority Leader Bob Huff (R-Diamond Bar) responded to the proposals saying Republicans look forward to a full public debate.  Huff added, “I’m pleased that the majority party has also recognized our unacceptably high statewide unemployment rate.  It’s the belief of Senate Republicans that any course of action should be weighed against California’s ability to create or sustain jobs for the middle class.”  Huff notes that it will be critical to determine a universal definition of a “green” job.

Click here for more details on the four bills.