An opportunity to put millions of Americans to work in new jobs

Written by: Tom Hayes on May 14, 2009 9:48 PM EDT

At a time when outsourcing undermines the middle class, we have a chance to be creating millions of new jobs right here in the U.S.A.  Investing in energy independence isn't simply a national defense priority, it makes sense for the environment and our economy.  The President and the Congress are getting us moving in the right direction.

Statement from The Executive Director of the Blue Green Alliance, David Foster:

"Legislation establishing a cap on the carbon pollution that causes global warming is a significant step toward building a new, green economy in the United States. As the nation continues to face high unemployment and the threat of climate change, Chairmen Waxman and Markey have shown true leadership on this critical issue.

"We are particularly pleased that the Committee has reached a consensus on provisions in the legislation that will cut carbon emissions and prevent job loss to other countries. We believe it is essential that this legislation provide the safeguards that allow American manufacturing and its workers to remain competitive with the rest of the world. The provisions laid out in the legislation move us forward in accomplishing this goal.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act included more than $60 billion in clean energy investments that will jump-start our economy and build the clean energy jobs of tomorrow:

$11 billion for a bigger, better, and smarter grid that will move renewable energy from the rural places it is produced to the cities where it is mostly used, as well as for 40 million smart meters to be deployed in American homes.

$5 billion for low-income home weatherization projects.

$4.5 billion to green federal buildings and cut our energy bill, saving taxpayers billions of dollars.

$6.3 billion for state and local renewable energy and energy efficiency efforts.

$600 million in green job training programs – $100 million to expand line worker training programs and $500 million for green workforce training.

$2 billion in competitive grants to develop the next generation of batteries to store energy.

What’s good for the planet - in terms of reduced emissions and energy consumption - is good for the country in terms of putting all sorts of people back to work, in productive, good-paying jobs. It’s good for the economy; it’s the key to our future. Congress is already beginning to move to infuse stimulus money into key industries. Take the time to thank your Senators and Representatives for changing the way Washington works and starting to look out for our interests instead of special interests, or to ask them why they aren't.

"In the face of economic crisis, we have an important opportunity to put millions of men and women to work building the clean energy economy. Passing comprehensive climate legislation is a critical step forward. The Blue Green Alliance looks forward to working with Congress to make certain that the provisions in this legislation ensure the creation of millions of good, family-sustaining green jobs in the United States and the protection of public health and the environment for future generations."

David Foster
Executive Director of the Blue Green Alliance
13 May 2009

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