Harley Rouda: “This amendment recognizes that American cities, States, and businesses are stepping up and pledging to meet the Paris…”

“This amendment recognizes that American cities, States, and businesses are stepping up and pledging to meet the Paris Agreement goals in the wake of absent and uncertain United States Federal leadership. While the current administration takes steps to actively undermine the position of the United States on the global stage with regard to climate change, an unprecedented coalition of American States, cities, and businesses are taking action and working to lead the United States to a low-carbon future, as affirmed by the Paris Agreement. Cities across the country and in my home State of California are taking on the challenge of combating climate change. These cities are implementing new sustainability initiatives by targeting 100 percent renewable energy, recycling 100 percent of wastewater, and working toward net zero carbon emission goals. As California continues to be an international leader in forward- thinking policy and environmental stewardship, we are not alone. When describing the ongoing work and the action still needed, California Governor Jerry Brown said, ``We're at the base camp of Mount Everest, and we're looking up at the long way we still have to go.'' That is why, without Federal leadership, States are left taking the lead. The United States Climate Alliance, a bipartisan coalition of Governors committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions consistent with the goals of the Paris Agreement, just added its 24th State this week.…”