| June 6, 2008 |  |
Senate Vote Shows Growing Support for Global Warming Legislation
Statement by Lexi Shultz, Union of Concerned Scientists
WASHINGTON (June 06, 2008) – Today, 48 senators voted to end a filibuster and allow a meaningful debate on the Lieberman-Warner-Boxer Climate Security Act of 2008, but there was not enough support to overcome the tactics of Senate obstructionists. Despite the fact that the Senate did not move forward today, the debate demonstrated growing momentum for passing a national global warming policy, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).
Below is a statement by Lexi Shultz, deputy director of the Climate Program at UCS:
"Despite overwhelming support from the public for action on global warming, senate obstructionists were able to block meaningful debate on a bill that would have addressed the most important environmental issue of our time. That's unfortunate, because the longer we wait to put a cap on global warming pollution, the harder and more expensive it will be to make the deep cuts we need to avoid the worst consequences of climate change.
"Momentum is growing, however. More senators than ever before supported moving forward on climate solutions, including senators who voiced opposition to global warming bills in the past. Additionally, the senators universally acknowledged what scientists have long known – global warming is real and people in the United States and around the world are already feelings its consequences, from droughts, to more extreme weather to sea level rise.
"Americans are demanding global warming solutions. It's a shame they will have to wait another year. But our country will have another global warming debate in 2009 with a new Congress and president. Putting a cap on global warming pollution is inevitable."
Last week, 1,700 U.S scientists and economists issued a statement urging policymakers to make swift and deep reductions in the pollution that causes global warming. The statement noted that acting quickly would be the most cost-effective way to limit climate change. The signers also said smart reduction strategies would allow the economy to grow, generate new domestic jobs, protect public health, and strengthen energy security.
The Union of Concerned Scientists puts rigorous, independent science to work to solve our planet's most pressing problems. Joining with citizens across the country, we combine technical analysis and effective advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for a healthy, safe, and sustainable future.
