In response to reports that Senator Joe Manchin has reached a deal with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, Evergreen Action Executive Director Jamal Raad released the following statement:

“Passing a climate bill should be Congress’ number one priority. The reported agreement between Senator Manchin and Leader Schumer presents the opportunity for a major breakthrough in America’s fight against climate change. With $369 billion for climate and energy provisions, this bill has the potential to be the single largest investment in clean energy in American history. Making major investments in clean energy is one of the best ways Congress can lower inflation and shield Americans from the volatility of fossil fuel markets. In the days ahead, we look forward to reviewing the bill in detail to assess whether it lives up to President Biden’s commitments on climate and environmental justice.

“With tens of millions of Americans currently living under extreme heat warnings, it’s never been more urgent to deliver meaningful climate solutions that will mitigate the worst impacts of climate change, reduce energy costs for working families, and save countless lives. We know we cannot meet our international climate commitments nor the President’s environmental justice commitments without significant federal clean energy investments. If necessary, Majority Leader Schumer should cancel August recess to prioritize getting a climate bill across the finish line and delivering on the agenda that the American people voted for.”

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