Citing the very real threat posed by climate change, Rep. Steve McCarter (D-Montgomery), was joined Wednesday by legislators and advocacy groups to announce the formation of the bicameral Climate Caucus.
“With a new administration at the federal level, it’s now more important than ever for legislators to collaborate and share information and ideas concerning climate change and how its impact will affect Pennsylvania,” Rep. McCarter said. “The Climate Caucus aims to provide a forum for discussion and to increase information so we as legislators can ensure we’re making informed decisions in the best interest of the environment and the people of Pennsylvania.”
Rep. McCarter was joined by Representatives Mary Jo Daley (D-Montgomery); Leanne Krueger-Braneky (D-Delaware); Bob Freeman (D-Northampton); Donna Bullock (D-Philadelphia); Chris Rabb (D-Philadelphia).; Greg Vitali (D-Delaware); Carolyn Comitta (D-Chester); and Mike Sturla (D-Lancaster).
"There's indisputable proof that our climate is changing at a rapid and unsustainable rate, and there are ways to protect our environment for current and future generations while also encouraging job growth, such as in the fields of clean energy and energy efficiency,” Rep. Frankel said.
Legislators were also joined by the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators, the Environmental Defense Fund, PennEnvironment, PennFuture and the Sierra Club.
“Our climate is in a fragile state and it’s more important than ever that this caucus is formed to work hand-in-hand with environmental organizations, as well as underrepresented communities,” Rep. Bullock said. “We need to protect our environment on a state level and then build upon that fight to make sure our voice is heard on a federal level.”
The first organizational meeting of the Climate Caucus will be in February. All legislators from the House and Senate are invited to attend.
“Climate change isn’t just about changes in the weather – it impacts so many more facets of our day to day lives,” Rep. Krueger-Braneky said. “Agriculture, industry, our entire economy will be impacted if we don’t start working together and combating this problem.”
“There’s no better time than the present to form this caucus and start this discussion,” Rep. Comitta said. “Each day that passes with inaction is only furthering the damage to our planet and making the problem worse. It’s time that we began having these necessary dialogues to work toward a solution for climate change.”
Rep. McCarter can be contacted by sending email to: RepMcCarter@pahouse.net or call 717-783-1079.NewsClips:
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