On the recordApril 17, 2013
It is time for a real debate on climate change--right here on the House floor. The members of the Safe Climate Caucus come to the floor to talk about this critical issue every day that the House is in session, but where are our Republican colleagues? Last week, we challenged the Republican members of the Energy and Commerce Committee to a debate, a debate about the appropriate policy response to the threat of climate change, but we've heard nothing from the Republicans. The House Republican leadership should schedule that debate right away. This problem is not going away. The longer we delay, the greater the risks. The Energy and Commerce Committee has refused to act or to even hear the latest science. Congressman Waxman and Congressman Rush have sent over 20 letters requesting hearings with scientists and other experts about important developments in climate science, but the Republicans have refused to hold any hearings on climate change. The American public is entitled to an explanation for this disappointing record of inaction. Madam Speaker, we need to get serious about tackling climate change. That means having a debate about what actions should be taken. That debate is long overdue, and my friends, time is running out. ____________________
