WASHINGTON, DC (November 5, 2009) – The Senate Environment & Public Works Committee today reported the chairman’s mark of the Clean Energy Jobs & American Power Act out of committee without amendment. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-OK) led committee Republicans in refusing to participate in the bill’s mark-up.

Jeremy Symons, senior vice president of the National Wildlife Federation, said today:

“The bill’s success in committee today, combined with yesterday’s announcement by Senators Graham, Kerry and Lieberman of plans for a bipartisan bill, add up to a big boost for action in the Senate. A month ahead of the global climate talks in Copenhagen next month, Senators have sent a signal to the President and the nations of the world that Congress is getting closer to the finish line.

“The National Wildlife Federation thanks Sen. Boxer for her unwavering leadership and the bill’s supporters for their commitment to clean energy jobs, energy security, and protecting America’s natural resources for our children and grandchildren. It’s unfortunate Senator Inhofe kept his team on the bench for today’s markup, proving once again he’s the oil industry’s biggest ally in Congress. But the focus now shifts to Senators Graham, Kerry and Lieberman as they work to deliver bipartisan clean energy and climate solutions.”

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For Immediate Release: November 5, 2009

Contact: Jeremy Symons, National Wildlife Federation, (202) 306-7902, Symons@NWF.org

The National Wildlife Federation is America's largest conservation organization inspiring Americans to protect wildlife for our children's future.

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