This is not completely unexpected, but it is very much new. The AFL-CIO has sent a letter to members of Congress urging them to vote ‘yes’ on the Waxman-Markey climate change bill. Labor has been involved in the process for a while, and fairness to workers was a key consideration for the lawmakers who wrote the bill. But this is also the first time the group has supported energy legislation like this, and the move gives cover to moderates and representatives from blue collar districts to support the bill and avoid inevitable jobs attacks.
The full letter appears below the fold.
Dear Representative:
The AFL-CIO supports climate change legislation that will create new economic
opportunities and preserve existing jobs while achieving the important objectives of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing our dependence on foreign energy.
The American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009, though not perfect, represents an important first step toward achieving these goals, and we urge a yes vote.
The American Clean Energy and Security Act maintains a diverse energy portfolio that includes renewable energy, fossil fuels, and nuclear and hydro power, while spurring economic investment in new energy technologies that will create jobs for American workers. At the same time, the bill imposes an economy-wide carbon reduction program and seeks to minimize the burden
on anyone sector.
We believe the American Clean Energy and Security Act could be improved further. For example, we will work to strengthen its international competitiveness provisions. Moreover, we believe the bill should not be sent to the White House for the President’s signature until the Energy
Information Administration has conducted a full analysis of its impact.
We are encouraged by the progress that has been made thus far on the bill and we look forward to working with Congress to improve this landmark legislation.
Sincerely,
William Samuel, Director
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
