Schneider Announces Introduction of the 100% Clean Economy Act

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) announced the introduction of the 100% Clean Economy Act of 2019 (H.R. 5221), with more than 150 of his Democratic colleagues. This legislation would focus on a whole-of-government approach to achieving the goal of net-zero carbon-based emissions by 2050.

"Climate change poses an existential threat, and we are already seeing its impact in our own community. We need to get serious about transitioning to and ultimately achieving net-zero emissions and this bill provides the necessary steps to do just that," said Congressman Schneider.

Congressman Schneider is an original cosponsor of the bill and fully supports the goal of a clean energy economy. This legislation would make it a national goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and would empower every federal agency to work within their statutory authorities to move our economy towards that goal. The bill directs the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to evaluate agency plans, make recommendations and provide reports on progress towards this national goal.

The 100% Clean Economy Act includes the following principles:

• Improve public health, particularly for low-income and vulnerable communities dealing with the climate crisis right now;
• Enhance job creation and ensure transitions for employees in industries and communities impacted by the economic changes;
• Provide benefits to consumers as well as small businesses and rural communities;
• Prepare and provide communities with proper resources for the effects of climate change.

Environmental organizations endorsing the legislation include the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), the Sierra Club, the League of Conservation Voters, and the Natural Resources Defense Council. A letter of support for the bill from eight national public health and medical organizations available to read here.