Democrats’ Select Committee on Climate – Responses

Statements issued thus far:

FWW statement
Collin (Oil Change)’s quick supply-side analysis
350 statement
SC statement
FOE/Progressive groups’ statement
‘Genocidal Negligence’ article from Common Dreams featuring responses from Laura and Ezra (TCM) and Mitch Jones (FWW)
Hunter Cutting/Climate Nexus – report fails on 1.5 C
GP statement Greenpeace scored the report against our Climate 2020 Scorecard rubric that came up with 61.5/100 overall, which breaks down to 21.5/50 on phasing out fossil fuel production and 40/50 on investing in 100% clean energy. Methodology

The Democrats’ proposal, referred to in a two-page summary as a “congressional action plan” and a “roadmap”, calls for interim targets to assess progress. Nancy Pelosi announced the plan, compiled by the House select committee on the climate crisis that is chaired by the Florida congresswoman Kathy Castor, at an event in front of the US Capitol on Tuesday morning. The more than 538-page report will include hundreds of policy recommendations focused on 12 key pillars, according to a separate outline.

Modeling on a subset of those recommendations by the firm energy innovation showed they would cut net US greenhouse gas emissions by 37% below 2010 levels in 2030, and 88% below 2010 levels in 2050, according to the report outline. The remaining 12% of emissions cuts would have to come from hard-to-decarbonize sectors, including heavy-duty truck transportation, industry and agriculture.

The proposal outline recommends a clean energy standard for

Only net-zero electricity by 2040
Only net-zero new buildings by 2030.
Only zero-emitting new vehicles to be sold by 2035, and it advocates
Doubling funding for public transit

The plan provides a “roadmap for Congress to build a prosperous, clean energy economy that values workers, advances environmental justice, and is prepared to meet the challenges of the climate crisis”, according to the documents.

Food and Water Watch 06.30.20

Washington, D.C. — Today, the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis released its long-awaited plan for responding to climate change. It recommends a goal of achieving ‘net zero’ electricity by 2040, and overall ‘net zero’ emissions a decade later.

Food & Water Action Policy Director Mitch Jones released the following statement in response:

“This climate proposal inexplicably and inexcusably fails to call for a halt to the extraction of fossil fuels. It is simply not an adequate attempt to deal with the crisis we actually face. We must take the necessary first steps: a ban on fracking, a ban on exports and imports of fossil fuels, and an immediate halt to new fossil fuel infrastructure buildout. Anything that does not seek to immediately curtail and then eliminate the production of fossil fuels is weak sauce.

“The paltry ‘net-zero’ goals put forth by the committee would allow for continued use of dirty fossil fuels, and would rely on achieving emissions reductions from unproven, industry-backed ‘carbon capture’ technologies and market-based accounting tricks.

“It is alarming to see carbon taxes included as part of the Democrats’ proposed solution. This is no time or place for regressive policies that have already proven to be colossal failures. Fossil fuel corporations embrace these phony pricing schemes because they know that these policies only entrench their existence.

“The plan also endorses the use of biogas and factory farm manure digesters, which prop up unsustainable and dangerous agricultural practices that are contributing to the climate crisis. A bold, sensible climate plan would seek to end our use of fossil fuels and place a moratorium on polluting factory farms; this plan would do the opposite.

“A bold climate plan must call for a ban on fracking and all new fossil fuel infrastructure, and a swift and just transition to 100 percent clean, renewable energy across all sectors of the economy. We have no time left to prop up false solutions that cannot meet the demands of the current crisis. The Democrats must do better — much better.”

350.org’s Associate Director of U.S. Policy Natalie Mebane made the following statement:

“The House Democrats’ climate plan is more ambitious than what we’ve seen from Democratic leadership to date – and that is in no small part a testament to the ever-expanding climate movement who have demanded a Green New Deal. While we acknowledge this first step we know there is no tackling the climate crisis without unapologetically addressing Big Oil’s grip on our economy and making them pay for the damage they’ve caused to our climate and communities. We urge House Democrats to go even further and put forward a plan at the scale of the climate crisis. Going bigger and bolder will show that there are real climate leaders in Congress willing to do what it takes to turn around our economy and society, and reinvest in communities already suffering from the compound effects of climate disasters, COVID-19, a longstanding crisis of racial injustice, and health and economic inequities.
“With less than ten years to keep warming at below 1.5 degrees celsius, the plan’s targets for phasing out emissions need to be stronger. Specifically, these plans need to go further on regulating and phasing out fossil fuel production with clear target dates for the elimination of all fossil fuel expansion and subsidies.
“We call on House Democrats to stop evading the largest source of greenhouse emissions – the fossil fuel industry – and expand their plan to eliminate fossil fuels, prioritize communities most impacted by the climate crisis, and provide millions of Americans with the resources and training needed to transition to jobs in renewable energy.”

New analysis of the economics of coal and clean energy by Rocky Mountain Institute, Carbon Tracker Initiative, and Sierra Club: How to Retire Early: Making Accelerated Coal Phase-Out Feasible and Just. Our analysis reveals that renewables are now so cheap that switching the world from coal to clean power pays for itself in just two years—and saves over $100 billion in five years. It lays out specific financial strategies that utilities and policymakers can use to engineer a faster phaseout while enabling a just transition for workers and communities.

An integrated three-part approach:

1) Refinance to fund the coal transition, save customers money on day one,
2) Reinvest in clean energy, and
3) Provide transition financing for workers and communities.

79% of the 236 GW coal fleet is uncompetitive today. US policymakers could help customers save up to $10 billion annually phasing it out.

Outside the United States, a third of the global coal fleet is already more costly to continue operating than building new renewables with storage today. By 2025, that number will reach nearly 80% globally with several regions and countries seeing next to no competitive coal.

You can read more in our blogpost or download the report here.

MISSING PIECES in Select Committee Report

Nothing on actually phasing out or even directly constraining extraction on private land (just methane stuff)
Doesn’t fully ban public lands drilling (takes pained Grijalva bill approach)

Nothing on crude oil exports
Not enough on LNG exports? Asks FERC to take climate into account for permits (which isn’t too bad, but could be stronger…)

Needs constraints on 45Q for EOR (doesn’t even mention EOR at all)
Doesn’t address fact that IRS guidance weakens 45Q requirements
Doesn’t appear to actually address 45Q regulatory issues with Subpart RR

Nothing on ending international fossil fuel finance
Weak language on private fossil fuel finance

Doesn’t include supply-side recommendations from VECA or many others
Net-zero = dangerous

— — — — — — — — — — — —

Relevant Supply-Side Sections / Quick Impressions

Page 163

Expand 45Q so smaller utilization figures are eligible (neutral / bad)

Page 196-

METHANE (neutral / good)

Page 204

Make FERC consider downstream climate impact of pipelines (good)

Page 206

Fix FERC tolling orders (good)

Page 210

Make FERC consider all climate impacts of export infrastructure (good)

Page 211

Block use of eminent domain for export pipelines (good)

[a couple more small good FERC things on landowner rights]

Page 234

Require reporting of climate risk in SEC disclosures (good / neutral)

Page 235

Direct the Fed to identify and mitigate climate-related risks to large financial institutions (good-ish)

Page 251

Extend construction date for 45Q an undetermined number of years, expand for smaller utilization figures, provide a direct pay option, extend claim period for an undetermined number of years, increase the value of the credit (bad and most benefits not constrained to industrial uses, so a boon for EOR)
Enact investment tax credits for industrial projects, ensure claimants meet all EPA and IRS requirements (neutral)

Page 256

Give EPA more money to permit more wells for 45Q / CCUS usage (unclear)
Don’t weaken compliance rules for 45Q (good)
[no recommendation on improving Subpart RR compliance despite that being the point of this section?]

Page 281

Extend 45Q for DAC (neutral)

Page 285

Repeal unnecessary tax breaks for the oil and gas industry (good)

Page 481

Pass Grijalva’s plan to gradually reduce emissions from fossil fuel extraction on federal lands (pretty bad)

Page 482

Pass Grijalva’s plan for a one-year moratorium on new leases or until they’re banned by Interior (neutral / bad)

Page 483

Ban offshore leasing (good)

Page 484

Pass DeGette methane bill (pretty bad)

Page 486

Decrease lease sales, decrease lease length

Page 489

Block drilling near special places, including Arctic (good, but incomplete)

Page 490

Restrict drilling in sage grouse and other endangered species habitats (good)

Page 491

Repeal unnecessary tax breaks for the oil and gas industry (good, but exactly the same as Page 285?)

Page 492

Increase onshore royalty rates (neutral)

Page 493

Block offshore royalty loopholes (good)

Page 494

End noncompetitive leasing (good)

Page 496

Reform lease nomination process (good)

Page 497

Strengthen NEPA process for leases (good)

Page 499

Increase fossil fuel bonding rates (good)

Page 500

Invest in oil and gas well remediation and restoration (good, but vastly too little money)

Page 531

Increase Social Cost of Carbon (good)

Select Committee on the Climate Crisis Report Toolkit

*Spanish-Language resources can be found HERE*

Message Guidance

Climate solutions give us an incredible opportunity to jumpstart our economy and protect public health and
Ensure a bright future for the young people across the U.S. who are urging bold action.
One of the lessons learned from the coronavirus pandemic is that ignoring scientists puts us all at risk. We need to heed the warnings from scientists and public health experts, especially when they urgently call for action to address public health threats like the coronavirus and climate change.
As we work to make people healthier and safer, we must also ensure justice for communities of color that have long been disproportionately harmed by pollution.

As we start to rebuild in a smarter, more resilient and more equitable way, we need to
Invest in a 21^st-century infrastructure that can withstand the test of time and stand strong against climate-fueled threats.
We need policies that preserve and expand family-sustaining clean energy careers for all, advance economic and environmental justice, reduce pollution and address the climate crisis.
Significant investments in clean energy are necessary to rebuild the economy and fulfill our promise to young people.
Provide a plan for action that will achieve economic growth, protect our health, and reduce the threat of climate change.

Talking Points:
Support for climate action continues to strengthen and now is the time for leadership. As the devastating consequences of climate change worsen at home and abroad, the need for bold action to address the climate crisis and avoid the next great public health crisis has never been so great.

As we start to rebuild our economy and address the climate crisis, we need to invest in a clean energy economy that advances justice and creates equitable economic growth and jobs.

We should make significant investments in clean energy as part of our efforts to rebuild the economy instead of giving big oil companies and their CEOs more taxpayer funded bailouts.

That is why the Majority Members on The House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis spent the last year working with leaders and experts to develop a Climate Crisis Action Plan that gives Congress a blueprint for how to build a clean energy economy that values workers, advances economic and environmental justice, and is prepared to meet the challenges of the climate crisis.

This report is the result of a year-long effort, which included solutions-oriented conversations and hearings held across the country to examine tools, policies, local solutions, and actions that reduce the carbon pollution driving climate change.

The report, entitled “Solving the Climate Crisis: The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy and Just America” outlines hundreds of policy recommendations for fighting the climate crisis and is centered on 12 key pillars. If adopted in full, these recommendations would achieve net zero carbon pollution by 2050.

This blueprint for action draws on the best of U.S. innovation and ingenuity to outline smart policies that will help the country’s economy achieve net zero carbon pollution by 2050, and net negative pollution thereafter — a goal that will be necessary to avoid the worst impacts of the climate emergency.

Chair Kathy Castor and members of the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis should be commended for having a plan to address the climate crisis and making climate action a priority. Every member of Congress should carefully consider this plan and support policies to fight climate change, which is already harming communities in every corner of the country.

Counter Messaging for Attacks

Core Message: President Donald Trump and his supporters in Congress have no serious plan to address the climate crisis. Instead, they ignore the science and dismiss public health experts and would rather provide more bailouts to big oil and gas companies and their CEOs instead of preserving and expanding high growth clean energy jobs and economic opportunity for all.

Talking Points

Scientists and public health experts from the CDC to the military have been warning us for years that we need to take bold action to address the climate crisis before it’s too late. Donald Trump has ignored, insulted, and dismissed the CDC and military leaders and their calls to address the climate crisis and coronavirus pandemic.
From Donald Trump to Mitch McConnell and his climate denying congressional caucus, this Administration and its allies would prefer to traffic in misinformation or empty promises rather than show leadership. Many have echoed the President when he called the coronavirus and climate change a “hoax” and ignored warnings from scientists, putting the future of our children at risk.
They have no serious plan to address the climate crisis and have done nothing to protect our air, land, water and wildlife or children and communities from the devastating impacts of air, water, and climate pollution.
- In fact, they have supported and voted to defend rollbacks on 100 public health and environmental protections over the last four years.
Trump and his allies in Congress would prefer to provide big oil and gas companies with no-strings-attached taxpayer funded bailouts instead of setting sensible requirements to reduce pollution that worsens our air and exacerbates climate change.
Time is running out to address the climate crisis but is also running out on Washington’s climate denier polluter class who obstruct progress for the future to keep us addicted to fossil fuels.

Report Pillar Message Guidance

Pillar 1: Invest in Infrastructure to Build a Just, Equitable, & Resilient Clean Energy Economy

In order to achieve the stated goals of the report, the U.S. must start by investing in infrastructure to build a just, equitable and resilient clean energy economy.
National standards must be set to build more resilient electricity and transportation sectors — starting with expansive investments in clean energy and efficiency technologies, and strong pollution standards for cars and heavy-duty trucks.
U.S. transportation systems and electricity grids must be equipped to withstand the worst consequences of the climate crisis. Efficiency must be incorporated into every facet of these systems.
Everyone deserves to live in a healthy community powered by clean energy. Communities facing the brunt of pollution and the climate crisis must have equitable access to clean energy and the funding making these advancements possible.
We must also upgrade legacy systems in this effort by updating building codes for homes and businesses, investing in our water systems to provide clean water and prevent catastrophic flooding, prepare our telecommunications networks for the consequences of the climate crisis, and plug leaks and cut pollution from existing oil and gas infrastructure in the U.S.

Pillar 2: Drive Investment in Clean Energy Development and Innovation

Driving investment in clean energy deployment and innovation will be key in facilitating innovations including boosting funding for federal clean energy Research, Development, Demonstration and Deployment (RDD&D), expanding the Department of Energy Loan Guarantee Program to leverage private investment, requiring corporate disclosure and federal analysis of climate-related financial risks, launching a National Climate Bank, and fully committing to Mission Innovation in all of these efforts.

Pillar 3: Transform U.S. Industry and Establish Manufacturing Dominance in Clean Energy Technology

The U.S. is still recovering from the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic. Transforming the U.S. energy industry and establishing manufacturing dominance in clean energy technology will help put people in the U.S. back to work and create family-sustaining jobs throughout our economy.
We can rebuild the U.S. industry for global climate leadership by establishing performance standards for industrial facilities and creating markets for low-pollution goods through a federal Buy Clean program.
Investing in domestic manufacturing of clean energy and zero-pollution technologies can be achieved through reviving tax credits that promote clean energy, energy efficiency, and decarbonization technologies.
At the same time, we must develop, manufacture, and deploy cutting-edge carbon removal technology by increasing financial investment in these areas, while creating markets for fuels made from captured carbon.

Pillar 4: Break Down Barriers for Clean Energy Technologies

In order to break down barriers for clean energy technology and level the playing field, we must equitably align our tax code with a net-zero carbon pollution goal and eliminate unnecessary tax breaks for heavily-subsidized corporate polluters such as coal, oil and gas companies.

Pillar 5: Invest in U.S. Workers and Build a Fairer Economy

Investing in U.S. workers must be a priority as we build a fairer economy. That entails securing workers’ rights to organize a union and negotiate for higher wages, while ensuring safer working conditions and comprehensive benefits.
The Federal Government should commit to only funding projects that meet strong labor standards and should establish a National Economic Transition Office to coordinate workforce development assistance.

Pillar 6: Invest in Communities to Cut Pollution and Advance Environmental Justice

Low income communities and communities of color are often hit first and worst by pollution and effects of the climate crisis. Historical injustices have long jeopardized the safety of communities. Correcting inequities linked to environmental injustices and health disparities must be at the center of federal climate and environmental policy.
This can be achieved by directing the EPA to consider the cumulative pollution impacts of industrial facilities in Black, Indigenous and all communities of color, while prioritizing these communities in new federal spending projects to deploy clean energy and infrastructure.

Pillar 7: Improve Public Health and Manage Climate Risks to Health Infrastructure

The climate crisis, as well as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, has made it clear that we need a national plan to help communities and health departments prepare for and respond to climate-related health risks.
We need to invest in our communities, particularly Indigenous and communities of color that have borne the brunt of the climate crisis and pollution. By improving public health and mitigating climate risks to health infrastructure, we can begin to take on decades of environmental racism linked to environmental injustices and health disparities.

Pillar 8: Invest in U.S. Agriculture for Climate Solutions

Agricultural workers and family farmers know all too well the price of failing to address the climate crisis. Investing in family farmers and farmworkers will ensure sustainable agricultural practices that help fight climate change are employed across the country.
Farmers and ranchers have a vital role to play in taking on climate change. We can partner with those who are already taking action and further invest in energy efficiency & renewable energy on farms.

Pillar 9: Make U.S. Communities More Resilient to the Impacts of Climate Change

Now is the time to invest in the resilience of our communities, and we can do just that by ensuring climate change is accounted for in all stages of federal and local planning.
Our federal agencies must have plans to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change and must prepare adequately to respond to communities that are continuing to bear the brunt of the consequences of climate inaction.

Pillar 10: Protect and Restore U.S. Lands, Waters, Oceans, and Wildlife

Protecting and restoring our lands, waters, oceans, and wildlife are important steps towards improving biodiversity for overall ecosystem health and easing the burdens of pollution.
We can ensure that any related infrastructure projects will successfully put people to work in our nation’s growing clean economy, while working to mitigate the worst effects of climate change.

Pillar 11: Confront Climate Risks to U.S. National Security and Restore U.S. Leadership on the International Stage

National security experts have long identified climate change as a threat multiplier that harms military readiness. We need to address climate risks both in our own backyard and around the world. The U.S. has a commitment to doing so and refusing to take action is a clear abdication of U.S. leadership.

Pillar 12: Strengthen the U.S.’s Core Institutions to Facilitate Climate Action

Science matters when it comes to addressing national priorities like climate change. We need to start following science again and ensure our leaders are using the best data possible when making decisions about our health and environment.
Public opinion research shows that a majority of the people want our leaders to address climate change, and our federal agencies must show they are responsive to public opinion by taking action on climate.

IP Memos

To: Interested Parties

From:

Date:

Re: [Target Needs to Support the Report]

As [STATE] starts to rebuild, we need to do so in a smarter, more resilient and more equitable way. We need policies that will promote high growth clean energy jobs for all, advance economic and environmental justice, reduce pollution, and address the climate crisis. Chair Kathy Castor and members of the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis have provided such a blueprint for action, which [TARGET] should support, by building a clean energy economy that values workers, advances justice, and creates equitable economic growth and family-sustaining jobs for all.

The report, entitled “Solving the Climate Crisis: The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy and Just America” is centered on 12 key pillars and outlines policy recommendations to reduce the carbon pollution that is contributing to climate change while advancing economic and environmental justice for all. If adopted in full, these recommendations would achieve net zero carbon pollution by 2050, and net negative pollution thereafter — a goal that will be necessary to avoid the worst impacts of climate change in [STATE].

We must make significant investments in [STATE]’s growing clean energy economy as part of our efforts to rebuild the economy because clean technologies have been successful in tackling air pollution and climate change. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, clean energy was one of the fastest-growing job creators in the U.S., employing nearly 3.4 million people – nearly three times as many people as the fossil fuel industry. In STATE alone, this included over HOLD clean energy jobs, as well as HOLD energy efficiency businesses. [Additional information can be found here at the Climate Change Index.]

The United States clean energy economy has been hard hit by the pandemic. Over 620,000 U.S. clean energy workers have lost their jobs from March to May 2020, and clean energy employment has fallen by 18 percent over that same time period. The Climate Crisis Action Plan gives our federal leaders including [TARGET] a blueprint to rebuild [STATE]’s economy in a smart, equitable way and achieve economic growth, clean up [STATE]’s air, and reduce the threat of climate change.

The coronavirus pandemic has made it clear that ignoring public health warnings about climate change and air pollution puts [STATE] at risk. Communities of color and other low-income communities are often hit first and worse by climate change and face increased health burdens from air pollution, which is made worse by climate change. A recent study found that Black Americans in the United States are succumbing to the lethal coronavirus at a rate much higher than other populations, which scientists believe could be connected to long-term exposure to air pollution. All [STATE DEMONYM]s deserve to live in a healthy community powered by clean energy, and [TARGET] must support equitable access to clean energy and the funding to make these advancements possible.

[TARGET] should join [his/her] colleagues in supporting the Climate Crisis Action Plan. This bold blueprint for action will rebuild [STATE]’s economy by investing in clean energy jobs, cutting carbon pollution that contributes to climate change, and protecting [STATE DEMONYM]s’ health. [TARGET] has the ability to take on the climate crisis and boost the growing clean energy economy by listening to the growing demands for climate action in [STATE].

###

To: Interested Parties

From:

Date:

Re: [Thanks Target for Supporting the Report]

As [STATE] starts to rebuild, we need to do so in a smarter, more resilient, and more equitable way. We need policies that will promote high growth clean energy jobs for all, advance economic and environmental justice, reduce pollution, and address the climate crisis. woman Kathy Castor and members of the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, as well as [TARGET], have provided such a blueprint for action, by building a clean energy economy that values workers, advances justice and creates equitable economic growth and family-sustaining jobs for all.

The report, entitled “Solving the Climate Crisis: The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy and Just America” is centered on 12 key pillars and outlines policy recommendations to reduce the carbon pollution that is contributing to climate change while advancing economic and environmental justice. If adopted in full, these recommendations would achieve net zero carbon pollution by 2050, and net negative pollution thereafter — a goal that will be necessary to avoid the worst impacts of climate change in [STATE].

We must make significant investments in [STATE]’s growing clean energy economy as part of our efforts to rebuild the economy because clean technologies have been successful in tackling air pollution and climate change. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, it was one of the fastest-growing job creators in the U.S., employing nearly 3.4 million people – nearly three times as many people as the fossil fuel industry. In [STATE] alone, this included over HOLD clean energy jobs, as well as HOLD energy efficiency businesses. [Additional information can be found here at the Climate Change Index.]

The U.S. clean energy economy has been hard hit by the pandemic. Over 620,000 U.S. clean energy workers have lost their jobs from March to May 2020, and clean energy employment has fallen by 18 percent over that same time period. The Climate Crisis Action Plan gives Congress a blueprint to rebuild [STATE]’s economy in a smart, equitable way and achieve economic growth, clean up [STATE]’s air, and reduce the threat of climate change.

The coronavirus pandemic has made it clear that ignoring public health warnings about climate change and air pollution puts [STATE] at risk. Communities of color and other vulnerable communities are often hit first and worse by climate change and face increased health burdens from air pollution, which is made worse by climate change. A recent study found that Black Americans in the United States are succumbing to the lethal coronavirus at a rate much higher than other populations, which scientists believe could be connected to long-term exposure to air pollution. [TARGET]’s support of this plan will help break down the barriers that some [STATE DEMONYM]s face to accessing clean energy.

By supporting the Climate Crisis Action Plan, [TARGET] is helping to rebuild [STATE]’s economy by investing in clean energy jobs, cutting carbon pollution that contributes to climate change and protecting [STATE DEMONYM]s’ health. [TARGET] is taking on the climate crisis and boosting the growing clean energy economy by listening to the growing demands for climate action in [STATE].

###

Sample Statements

Target Needs to Support the Report

[MONTH XX, 2020]

CONTACT

[NAME, PHONE NUMBER]

[EMAIL]

Representative X Must Support the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis’ Blueprint to Address Climate Change

Entitled ‘Solving the Climate Crisis: The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy and Just America’

(CITY, STATE) – Today, the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis released a blueprint to address the climate crisis entitled “Solving the Climate Crisis: The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy and Just America.” Representative X has not voiced support for the report.

The Climate Crisis Action Plan is centered on 12 key pillars and outlines policy recommendations to take on the climate crisis, focusing on reducing carbon pollution that is contributing to climate change and advancing economic and environmental justice for all.

In response, [Organization/Individual] released the following statement:

“[STATE DEMONYMs OR PEOPLE] are already experiencing the impacts of the climate crisis in their state and understand the growing threat climate change would have on local communities and economies. It’s time for our federal leaders including [TARGET] to support a bold blueprint for action that will achieve economic growth, protect our health and reduce the threat of climate change while protecting us all.

“The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made it clear we must heed the call for action to address existential public health threats like the climate crisis. To do that, we must invest in the pollution-fighting clean energy economy, which has lost over 620,000 jobs during this pandemic, in order to advance environmental justice and create equitable economic growth and jobs for all. Through U.S. innovation, we can achieve an economy with net zero carbon pollution by 2050, and net negative pollution thereafter — a goal that will be necessary to avoid the worst impacts of climate change in [STATE].”

“The time is now for [Target] to listen to the growing demands for climate action. [Target] should support the Climate Crisis Action Plan because it not only offers concrete solutions to rebuild our economy and take on the climate crisis, but this bold plan will help us build a clean energy economy that values workers, advancing economic and environmental justice. [STATE DEMONYM]s need [Target] to stand up for their health and economy by supporting this blueprint for action.”

###

Thanks Target for Supporting the Report

[MONTH XX, 2020]

CONTACT

[NAME, PHONE NUMBER]

[EMAIL]

[ORGANIZATION/INDIVIDUAL] Applauds Representative X for Support of the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis’ Blueprint to Address Climate Change

Entitled ‘Solving the Climate Crisis: The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy and Just America’

In response, [Organization/Individual] released the following statement:

“[STATE DEMONYMs OR PEOPLE] are already experiencing the impacts of the climate crisis in their state and understand the growing threat climate change would have on local communities and economies. It’s time for our federal leaders to support a blueprint for action that will achieve economic growth, protect our health and reduce the threat of climate change while protecting us all. That is why [I/We; am/are] thanking [Target] for supporting this bold plan.

“Thank you, [Target] for listening to the growing demands for climate action. The Climate Crisis Action Plan not only offers concrete solutions to rebuild our economy and take on the climate crisis, but this bold plan will help us build a clean energy economy that values workers, advancing economic and environmental justice. [STATE DEMONYM]s are grateful that [Target] is standing up for their health and economy by supporting this blueprint for action.”

###

LTE Templates

Target Needs to Support the Report

As we start to rebuild our economy and address the climate crisis, we need to invest in a clean energy economy that advances justice and creates equitable economic growth and jobs for all. Additionally, we should make significant investments in clean energy as part of our efforts to rebuild the economy.

That is why the new report from the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis to develop a Climate Crisis Action Plan is so important for [State]. This new plan gives Congress a roadmap for how to build a clean energy economy that values workers, advances economic and environmental justice, and is prepared to meet the challenges of the climate crisis. If there’s anything we’ve learned from the coronavirus pandemic, it’s that we need to heed the warnings from scientists and public health experts, especially when they urgently call for action to address public health threats like the coronavirus and climate change.

I urge [State Demonyms] to join me in calling on [Target] to support this important plan to act on climate and boost our clean energy economy in a just and equitable way. Every member of Congress should carefully consider this plan and support policies to fight climate change, which is already harming communities in every corner of [State]. We have no time to waste.

###

Thanks Target for Supporting the Report

If we’ve learned anything from the coronavirus pandemic, it’s that ignoring science puts us all at risk. We need to heed the warnings from scientists and public health experts, especially when they urgently call for action to address public health threats like the coronavirus and climate change. As [State Demonyms] start to rebuild, we need to do so in a smarter, more resilient, and more equitable way. We need policies that preserve and expand high growth clean energy jobs for all, advance economic and environmental justice, reduce pollution and address the climate crisis.

Thankfully, the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis released a report to do just that. The report, entitled “The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy and Just America” outlines hundreds of policy recommendations for fighting the climate crisis and is centered on 12 key pillars. If adopted in full, these recommendations would achieve net zero carbon pollution by 2050.

That is why I am thrilled with [Target]’s support of this important plan to fight the climate crisis. I urge every member of Congress to carefully consider the ideas outlined in this report and support policies to fight climate change, which is already harming communities in every corner of the country. There is simply too much at stake.

Social Guidance & Graphics

FB Live Release Promo

TWITTER:

LIVE: the @ClimateCrisis Committee Majority is releasing the Climate Crisis Action Plan, a blueprint for how the U.S. can achieve net zero carbon pollution by 2050 in order to avoid the worst impacts of the #ClimateCrisis. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://www.facebook.com/NancyPelosi/
WATCH: @ClimateCrisis Committee is releasing “The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy and Just America,” a set of recommendations on how to best tackle the #ClimateCrisis. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://www.facebook.com/NancyPelosi/
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means building a just and equitable clean energy economy. Watch the @ClimateCrisis Committee release their Climate Crisis Action Plan to help #ActOnClimate: https://www.facebook.com/NancyPelosi/
.@USRepKCastor- thank you for leading the @ClimateCrisis’ efforts in creating the Climate Crisis Action plan, a blueprint for Congress on how best to combat climate change. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://www.facebook.com/NancyPelosi/

FACEBOOK

LIVE: the [TAG] U.S. House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis Majority is releasing the Climate Crisis Action Plan, a blueprint for how the U.S. can achieve net zero carbon pollution by 2050 in order to avoid the worst impacts of the #ClimateCrisis. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://www.facebook.com/NancyPelosi/
WATCH: [TAG] U.S. House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis is releasing “The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy and Just America”, a set of recommendations on how to best tackle the #ClimateCrisis. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://www.facebook.com/NancyPelosi/
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means building a just and equitable clean energy economy. Watch the [TAG] U.S. House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis release their Climate Crisis Action Plan to help #ActOnClimate:https://www.facebook.com/NancyPelosi/
[TAG] U.S. Rep Kathy Castor- thank you for leading the [TAG] U.S. House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis’ efforts in creating the Climate Crisis Action Plan, a blueprint for Congress on how best to combat climate change. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://www.facebook.com/NancyPelosi/

General Guidance

What to say:

BREAKING: The Dems on the @ClimateCrisis Committee released the Climate Crisis Action Plan, calling on Congress to build a clean energy economy that prioritizes environmental justice to meet the needs of the #ClimateCrisis. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
Dems on the @ClimateCrisis Committee have just released the Climate Crisis Action Plan, a blueprint for how the U.S. can achieve net zero carbon pollution by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of the #ClimateCrisis. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
The #ClimateCrisis is one of the greatest threats to the U.S. Democrats from the @ClimateCrisis Committee have created the Climate Crisis Action Plan to highlight how to protect people in the U.S.. #ActOnClimate here: #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/
THIS: @ClimateCrisis Committee just released “The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy and Just America”, a set of recommendations on how to best tackle the #ClimateCrisis. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means building a clean energy economy with environmental justice at its foundation. The @ClimateCrisis Committee just released the Climate Crisis Action Plan to help set us on the path to save lives. #ActOnClimate https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report

Pillar 1: Invest in Infrastructure to Build a Just, Equitable, & Resilient Clean Energy Economy

What to say:

From the @ClimateCrisis Committee’s Climate Crisis Action Plan: to tackle the #ClimateCrisis, we MUST invest in building infrastructure and electrification to ensure all communities have access to clean energy. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
The @ClimateCrisis Committee Dems know, #SolvingTheClimateCrisis means we need national standards to build more resilient electricity and transportation sectors. Demand clean infrastructure from your representative here: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means investing in infrastructure that supports a just, equitable clean energy economy for all. Learn how the @ClimateCrisis Committee’s Action Plan expands access to clean energy for all communities. #ActOnClimate https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report

Pillar 2: Drive Investment in Clean Energy Development and Innovation

What to say:

Investing in clean energy is a MUST if we want to tackle the #ClimateCrisis and create environmental equality. Learn more from the @ClimateCrisis Dems in their new Climate Crisis Action Plan: #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
Dems from the @ClimateCrisis Committee know #SolvingTheClimateCrisis means we must invest in clean energy. Join the fight and demand that your representatives make climate action a priority: #ActOnClimate https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means investing in new clean energy solutions to address climate change. The @ClimateCrisis Committee created an Action Plan that facilitates the needed investment in clean energy development & innovation to #ActOnClimate: https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report

Pillar 3: Transform U.S. Industry and Establish Manufacturing Dominance in Clean Energy Technology

What to say:

Clean energy will help revive our economy in the wake of the #COVID19 pandemic. Read more about how the @ClimateCrisis Committee is recommending Congress make these changes: #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
The @ClimateCrisis Committee just released their Action Plan to advise Congress on how to best tackle climate change. A top suggestion in #SolvingTheClimateCrisis? Invest in clean energy jobs to revive the post #COVID19 economy. Join the fight here: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means prioritizing clean energy technology and transforming the energy industry. The @ClimateCrisis Committees’ new Action Plan will help us #ActOnClimate while reinvigorating our economy with well-paying clean energy jobs: https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report

Pillar 4: Break Down Barriers for Clean Energy Technologies

What to say:

In #SolvingTheClimateCrisis, we must invest taxpayer dollars into technologies that benefit them, instead of handing out tax breaks to polluters. The @ClimateCrisis Committee wants to level the playing field to get us to net-zero carbon pollution.

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/

Corporate polluters don’t deserve a pass. Tax dollars should be helping us achieve net-zero carbon pollution to save our planet. Join the @ClimateCrisis Committee in saying no to tax breaks for oil & gas companies. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/

#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means no more unnecessary tax breaks for oil companies & leveling the playing field for clean energy technology. The @ClimateCrisis Committee’s Action Plan breaks down what we must do to hit our net-zero carbon pollution goal: https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report

Pillar 5: Invest in U.S. Workers and Build a Fairer Economy

What to say:

U.S. workers are at the forefront of rebuilding our economy. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis means higher wages and the right to unionize. Join @ClimateCrisis Committee and demand your representatives prioritize the rights of U.S.-based workers: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/
U.S. workers need strong labor standards to ensure fair and just treatment. In the @ClimateCrisis Committee’s new Climate Crisis Action Plan, they demand the federal gov. only funds projects with these standards. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis #ActOnClimate https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means putting the people back to work to build a fairer economy. Join @ClimateCrisis Committee + demand the federal govt only commit funds to projects that meet strong labor standards + protect our workforce. #ActOnClimate

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/

Pillar 6: Invest in Communities to Cut Pollution and Advance Environmental Justice

What to say:

Communities of color and low-income communities are hit first and worst by the #ClimateCrisis. In the new @ClimateCrisis Action Plan, Committee Dems demand the @EPA reallocate funds to correct these inequities. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis #ActOnClimate https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
The @ClimateCrisis’ new Action Plan demands that the @EPA considers pollution impact on communities of color in order to help those who are impacted hardest by #ClimateCrisis consequences. Demand the same from your Rep. here: #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means addressing historical injustices which have disproportionately burdened communities of color in our fight to #ActOnClimate. The @ClimateCrisis’ new Climate Crisis Action Plan seeks to finally end those inequities:

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/

Pillar 7: Improve Public Health and Manage Climate Risks to Health Infrastructure

What to say:

Climate change threatens the communities on the frontlines of climate change, and #COVID19 has made this worse. @ClimateCrisis Committee’s Action Plan helps to fight against the consequences of pollution. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means listening to @ClimateCrisis’s new action plan that gives Congress a blueprint on how to address the negative impact that climate change has had on public health. Ask your representative to prioritize public health: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/

Pillar 8: Invest in U.S. Agriculture for Climate Solutions

What to say:

Farmers across the country have seen the consequences of climate change. Part of the @ClimateCrisis’s action plan invests in family farms, and tackles the #ClimateCrisis. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
The U.S. needs farmers, and farmers need to combat the #ClimateCrisis. Add your name and demand that your representatives prioritize climate action, and support the @ClimateCrisis Committee’s Action Plan guidelines: #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means investing in sustainable agriculture so farmers around the country can thrive while helping us #ActOnClimate. Demand your local representatives prioritize renewable energy on farms to address climate change:

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/

Pillar 9: Make U.S. Communities More Resilient to the Impacts of Climate Change

What to say:

To ensure community resilience against climate change, we must plan. The new @ClimateCrisis action plan gives Congress concrete steps to ensure that communities on the frontlines of climate change can mitigate its risks from climate change. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis

#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means protecting people from the consequences of climate change. Support the @ClimateCrisis Committee’s Action Plan for investment in climate preparedness & solutions. #ActOnClimate https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report

Pillar 10: Protect and Restore U.S. Lands, Waters, Oceans, and Wildlife

What to say:

At the heart of our nation’s environment is our land, waters, and wildlife. The @ClimateCrisis Committee’s Action Plan demands that we protect ecosystems and ease the burden of pollution. Ask the same from your rep here: #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis: Investing in a clean economy will not only protect our lands, waters, oceans and wildlife, but will help to mitigate the consequences of climate change. Learn more about the steps laid out by the @ClimateCrisis’s Action Plan: https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means protecting the land, water, oceans and wildlife. To do so, Congress must follow the recommendations of the #ClimateCrisis’s new Action Plan found here: https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report

Pillar 11: Confront Climate Risks to U.S. National Security and Restore U.S. Leadership on the International Stage

What to say:

#SolvingTheClimateCrisis: If we do not address the #ClimateCrisis now, our national security will be at risk. Add your name and demand that Congress follow the blueprint from the @ClimateCrisis Committee’s Action Plan to ensure our security: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/
The U.S. has long been a global leader, but with the #ClimateCrisis threatening our national security, we need Congress to step up and follow the recommendations put forward by the @ClimateCrisis’s Action Plan. Learn more here: #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means protecting our national security. Add your name here to demand that Congress follows the blueprint laid out by the @ClimateCrisis’s action plan. #ActOnClimate

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/

Pillar 12: Strengthen the U.S.’s Core Institutions to Facilitate Climate Action

What to say:

#SolvingTheClimateCrisis: The majority of the people want our leaders to address the #ClimateCrisis. In the @ClimateCrisis Committee’s action plan, Congress is given a blueprint on how to best #ActOnClimate. Demand your representatives join the fight: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-need-solutions-that-address-climate-change/
Science must drive our fight to combat climate change. The @ClimateCrisis Committee knows this and has created a blueprint, led by science and data, to combat the #ClimateCrisis. It’s time to #ActOnClimate. #SolvingTheClimateCrisis https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report
#SolvingTheClimateCrisis means relying on science and data. In the @ClimateCrisis Committee’s new Action Plan, they outline to Congress the best approaches to tackling climate change. #ActOnClimate https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report

Food and Water Watch 06.30.20

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