April 22nd, 2016 by WCBC Radio
April 22 is Earth Day, a global observance of the importance of conservation and environmental protections. Today, representatives from over 150 nations gathered at the United Nations to sign the Paris Climate Agreement. This week, Congressman John K. Delaney (MD-6) led a congressional show of support for the agreement, leading a letter with Senator Ben Cardin (MD) that was signed by over 145 Members of Congress.
“The beauty and bounty of our planet is a blessing and comes with a responsibility to leave wonders like the Chesapeake Bay and the mountains of Western Maryland to the next generation, a responsibility to make sure that our grandchildren have a healthy planet. On this Earth Day we must face the stark reality of what is happening to our planet,” said Congressman Delaney. “We are experiencing one of the warmest years on record and the risk posed by extreme weather and changing ecosystems is a threat to the economy and public health. The historic Paris Agreement being signed today is a step in the right direction, but there is more work to be done. The American people want action on this issue and Congress should respond before it is too late.”
Delaney is the author of the Tax Pollution, Not Profits Act, a bill to reduce carbon pollution and combat climate change in a pro-growth, economically responsible manner that helps working families. Delaney’s bill establishes a tax on greenhouse gas emissions; with receipts from the tax directed towards 1) reducing the corporate tax rate to increase employment and reduce consumer costs 2) providing monthly payments to low-income and middle-class households and 3) funding job training, early retirement and health care benefits to coal workers.
Delaney has also led the effort in the House of Representatives to establish a new national clean energy goal: having 50% of America’s electricity production coming from clean and carbon-free sources by 2030. 105 House Members have cosponsored Delaney’s 50X30 resolution.
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