House Democrats introduce climate-focused infrastructure bill with $33B for renewables.
House Democrats in the energy committee released an infrastructure bill on Wednesday focused on combating climate change that would dedicate tens of billions of dollars to renewable energy and energy efficiency.
More than $33 billion would go to clean energy, including $8 billion for grid upgrades to accommodate and expand the use of more renewable energy. More than $2 billion would be used to install solar panels in low-income and underserved neighborhoods and communities.
The bill, the LIFT America Act, also includes $23 billion to make energy efficiency improvements in homes, schools, and other buildings to ensure they produce less greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. The money will also be used to fund the "nationwide deployment" of cleaner fuels that can be used to heat homes and businesses.
“We cannot wait any longer to act on climate or to modernize our nation’s aging infrastructure," said Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, D-N.J. "The LIFT America Act makes significant investments in rebuilding our country and takes an important step in combating the climate crisis by moving us towards a clean energy future and reducing our carbon emissions.”
Pallone announced that the first hearing on the bill will occur a week from now on May 22.
The bill also dedicates funding to increase the nation’s broadband infrastructure, improve drinking water and healthcare infrastructure.
The bill calls for a $40 billion investment to expand high-speed broadband internet service to 98% of the country. Much of rural America lacks adequate internet service.
The bill follows discussion that took place at the White House in recent weeks between Democrats and President Trump on working together on an infrastructure bill.
Climate change is likely to be an issue as the bill gets vetted by the GOP in reaching a deal with the Republican-led Senate. Trump has tried to get an infrastructure bill through Congress over the last two years to no avail.
15 May 2019
Washington Examiner
