Political Quotes

“Madam President, I rise today in support of the joint resolution of disapproval, which would reinstate critical regulations on methane emissions from the oil and gas industry. Last summer, the Trump administration finalized a midnight rule that weakened and in some cases altogether eliminated requirements that oil and natural gas companies limit methane and volatile organic compound emissions from their operations. This action was taken despite methane's proven harmful impacts on air quality, health, and climate change. Methane leaks from oil and gas wells are often accompanied by leaks of harmful carcinogens like benzene, resulting in health effects for the most vulnerable, including children and seniors. My home State of California is still dealing with the fallout of the Aliso Canyon gas leak--the worst gas leak in U.S. history-during which more than 100,000 metric tons of methane was emitted into the air. Many nearby residents reported having headaches, bloody noses, nausea, and rashes. Methane also has more than 80 times the global warming potential of carbon dioxide and accounts for 10 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. According to one study, the Trump aministration action will result in methane leaks equivalent to up to 592 million metric tons of carbon dioxide. This will have irreversible effects on our climate. In California, we are already experiencing the destructive effects of climate change.…”