Climate Change
"The world is facing a climate crisis. Action is necessary, and must start now. We need a sensible energy plan that starts with conversation, offers incentives for new renewable energy and increases fuel efficiency standards. "
-Senator Barbara A. Mikulski
-Senator Barbara A. Mikulski
Senator Mikulski is fighting to make it easier for businesses and families to become energy efficient. She supports the development of new technologies that will create new green jobs and strengthen national energy security.
Taking Steps to Curb Global Warming
- Senator Mikulski is a co-sponsor of the Global Warming Pollution Reduction Act.
- Broad legislation to curb global warming that:
- Caps greenhouse gases (including cars).
- Brings federal government in line with Maryland legislation
- Requires new energy efficiency performance standards.
- Electricity suppliers must implement energy saving technologies
- Creates a Renewable Portfolio Standard.
- Utilities must increase generation of power from renewable sources.
- Phases in a 20% requirement after 2020.
- Caps greenhouse gases (including cars).
Advocating Increased Fuel Efficiency For Cars
Senator Mikulski believes that the auto industry must make necessary changes to increase fuel efficiency for automobiles.
- She supported legislation signed into law in 2007 that:
- Requires manufacturer's fleet average of all cars and light trucks up to 10,000 pounds to meet CAFE standards of 35 miles per gallon by 2020.
Building a Green Jobs Workforce
- Senator Mikulski is calling for resources to ensure the nation has the skilled workers necessary to:
- Help the country transition.
- A clean energy economy.
- She fought in the federal law books to:
- Create the Green Jobs training program in 2007.
- Create a sustainable, comprehensive public program to:
- Provide quality training for jobs created through renewable energy.
- Create energy efficiency initiatives.
- Senator Mikulski is fighting in the federal checkbook for full funding for training programs and block grants.
Providing Incentives with Energy Tax Credits
- Senator Mikulski supports providing new and extended tax incentives for using renewable energy, including energy efficient appliances.