Environment
Protecting the environment is more than merely preserving nature. It is a commitment we must make to promote the health and welfare of all people. In our Manhattan Congressional District and across America, especially in urban communities like our own, the effects of poor air and water quality are of great concern and importance.
More than half of all Americans live in places with unsafe levels of air pollution which can cause heart attacks and lung damage. The effects of water contamination can also lead to adverse health problems. Although we in New York City are fortunate to have some of the best drinking water in the world, we must make continuous efforts to fight mercury contamination and other forms of pollution to our water sources.
Recently I was proudly recognized by the League of Conservation Voters for my legislative record in protecting the environment. I remain strongly dedicated in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing fuel economy standards so we can protect the air that we breathe and the water that we drink. The efforts we make today will ensure that our children can live in an environment that is not only beautiful, but also healthy and sustainable.
Awards:
Rangel Scores High For Protecting Our Environment: Congressman Charles Rangel recently earned high marks for his voting record on protecting the environment by the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) on its 2011 National Environmental Scorecard.
Rangel Awarded for Supporting National Parks: "Parks like Grant's Tomb on Riverside Drive in my district bring the community together and tell the stories of our great nation."
Congressman Rangel's Legislation:
Fracturing Responsibility and Awareness of Chemicals Act of 2011, H.R. 1084 (Co-Sponsor)
Status: 3/21/2011 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy
Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to repeal the exemption from restrictions on underground injection of fluids or propping agents granted to hydraulic fracturing operations related to oil, gas, or geothermal production activities under such Act
Clean Water Protection Act, H.R. 1375 (Co-Sponsor)
Status: 4/6/2011- Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment
Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act) to define "fill material" to mean any pollutant that replaces portions of waters of the United States with dry land or that changes the bottom elevation of a water body for any purpose and to exclude any pollutant discharged into the water primarily to dispose of waste.
American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009, H.R. 1 (Co-Sponsor)
Status: 2/17/2009 - Became Public Law No: 111-5 (Signed into law by President Barack Obama)
The bill contains tax relief provisions that encourage investment in infrastructure that improves our environment and quality of life. Moreover, there are provisions to retrofit schools so that they use cleaner energy, meet health and safety codes, and eliminate exposure to mold and lead-based paint.
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