Rep. Payne, Jr. Votes to Pass the Climate Action Now Act

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) voted to pass H.R. 9, the Climate Action Now Act, House Democrats’ legislation that would require the Trump Administration to remain in the Paris Climate Accord and to develop a serious, carefully considered plan for meeting our commitments to reduce pollution and safeguard our environment.

“There is no future if the planet is not taken care of,” said Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10).“Climate change is real. Climate change is happening. And climate change cannot be ignored. I am proud to join my colleagues to pass the Climate Action Now Act, advancing legislation that respects the will of my constituents and the overwhelming majority of the American people. New Jersey is a resilient state, but we are not blind to the fact that climate change is the existential threat of our time. We survived Superstorm Sandy, and the people of our state are demanding action to protect the people and places we love.  For Democrats, delivering thoughtful and innovative action on climate is essential to protect public health, and clean air and clean water for our children; advance our economy and global preeminence in green technology; defend our national security; and honor our moral responsibility to pass on a healthy and sustainable future for our children.”

The Climate Action Now Act prohibits any federal funds from being used to take any action to advance the withdrawal of the U.S. from the landmark Paris Agreement.  It also calls on the President to develop and make public a plan for meeting our commitment to reduce pollution and ensure our preeminence in green technology and the good-paying jobs it creates for American workers.

“New Jersey’s families elected a Congress that would not shy away from its responsibility to protect our planet and our future,” continued Rep. Payne, Jr.  “Democrats will build on this progress as we continue to work with cities, states and experts to harness the well-informed, forward-thinking solutions necessary to combat this growing crisis.”