Bold Action Taken by Energy and Commerce Committee Tonight Brings Us Closer to Comprehensive Reform

Washington, D. C. - Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009, which was reported out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee this evening:

'The bold action taken by the Energy and Commerce Committee tonight brings us one step closer to comprehensive reform.  Chairman Waxman and Chairman Markey have built consensus across regional differences and developed bold legislation to create millions of new jobs and provide a strong foundation for economic recovery.  The progress made by the committee has been tremendous and I congratulate every member of the panel.

'The legislation the Energy and Commerce Committee has passed preserves our manufacturing base, protects consumers, strengthens our national security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil and keeps America number one by making our country a world leader in new technologies.

'The other committees of jurisdiction will soon bring forward their own contributions that will further strengthen this critical legislation.  I have asked these committees to work together and with the leadership to finalize this clean energy jobs package with the goal of having this package on the House floor as soon as possible.'