Dear Ms. Bullock-hock:

 Thank you for contacting me about climate change and our nation’s energy
policy.  I appreciate hearing from you on this issue and I welcome the
opportunity to respond. 

After years of debate and study about the scope of the problem, root
causes, impacts and potential solutions, the Congress is taking historic
action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prevent dangerous and
irreversible global warming.  Recently, the full House of
Representatives passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act of
2009 (H.R. 2454).  I must tell you that I supported this critical first
step in putting a new energy framework in place – one that is good for
the environment, reduces our dependency on fossil fuels and creates a
whole host of new energy jobs. 

 By developing a long term and sustainable energy strategy, we can
address economic, national security, and environmental policy priorities
in one fell swoop.  We can diversify our energy portfolio and end our
dependence on energy sources from volatile parts of the world.  By
revolutionizing our energy industry and becoming an exporter of clean
energy technologies, we will be able to maintain our competitive
advantage as a nation and ensure a prosperous future for our children.
Just as growth in information technology served as the driving force
behind the economic boom of the 1990′s, the development of clean energy
technology and green jobs will spur tremendous growth and offer
long-term relief to the American economy.

 Although this is a major step, there is still much to be done.  The bill
must eventually be reconciled with Senate legislation. I am mindful of
the fact that many believe the bill is too aggressive; others believe it
is not strong enough.  The legislation is not perfect and I will weigh
your views carefully as we proceed, always looking to improve the final
product.  We have an amazing opportunity to hand our children a better
future and we cannot let that opportunity slip through our fingers. The
data supporting the existence of climate change is real and compelling.
We must act now and demonstrate the leadership and discipline to pursue
solutions that are based on science and will adequately protect
prosperity and health for generations to come.

Some of the major features of the American Clean Energy and Security Act
are to:

 Invest in clean energy technologies and create green jobs
Cap and reduce greenhouse gases to levels that will prevent global
warming
Require utility companies to generate energy from renewable sources
Develop capabilities to capture and store carbon emissions
Provide support for development of electric vehicles
Support state energy efficiency measures
Advance smart grid technologies so electricity is delivered
efficiently
Provide consumer rebates for the purchase of energy efficient products

 Again, I appreciate hearing from you.  Please do not hesitate to contact
me about other issues of concern to you in the future.

 Sincerely,

John Sarbanes