For Immediate Release: June 23, 2015

As Congress Prepares Anti-Climate Bill, Eyes on Katko Vote

Days after Pope’s release of encyclical, bill in congress would stall climate action

Albany – This week, Congress is expected to vote on legislation (HR2042) advanced by Representative Ed Whitfield (R-Kentucky) to block the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Power Plan, incite states to ignore federal law, and gut the powers of the Clean Air Act.

The following statement is attributable to Executive Director Peter Iwanowicz:

“Congressman Katko has acknowledged that climate change is real, and that man has had an impact. Now his vote will show us if his actions are in line with his words.

The effects of climate change are already being felt in the Northeast, with more extreme and unpredictable weather which is impacting public safety and our economy. For instance, this past winter, Central New York had record low temperatures, with seven of the top 10 snowfalls reported in the state. And these temperatures exposed an outdated infrastructure, contributing to hundreds of water main breaks across the region.

Congressman Katko should oppose HR2042, and speak out against this legislation which is bad for our public health, environment and economy.”

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