Carper Hails House Passage of the Build Back Better Act

Legislation lowers everyday costs for American families, boosts the economy, and makes the largest investment to combat the climate crisis in history 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.) today applauded House passage of H.R.5376, the Build Back Better Act, a once-in-a-generation bill that lowers costs for families, cuts taxes for the middle class, strengthens our workforce, and meaningfully addresses the climate crisis.

“I’ve long believed that America is at its best when we invest in workers and families. Since taking office, President Biden has been laser-focused on building back an economy that works better for hardworking Americans, paid for by ensuring the wealthiest among us pay their fair share. With the House’s passage of the Build Back Better Act today, we are one-step closer to realizing that goal and making transformative investments in families, our workforce, and the future of our planet.

“This package includes a number of historic firsts for the American people. It ensures high-quality universal preschool for all 3-to 4-year olds, dramatically lowers the cost of childcare for working families, and takes the overdue step of allowing the United States to join the rest of the world by establishing a universal paid family leave program. The bill also helps make life-saving medicine more affordable with a commonsense proposal to lower prescription drug costs. 

“As the Chairman of the Environment and Public Works Committee, I’m especially proud that the Build Back Better Act meets the greatest challenge of our time—the climate crisis—by turning adversity into opportunity. It includes massive climate investments that will reduce emissions, create millions of good-paying American jobs, and unleash our potential to lead the world in clean energy production. Importantly, equity is baked into the bill’s DNA to ensure that no community gets left behind.

“After months of negotiations, the Build Back Better Act is the product of compromise. I’m proud that our hard work has resulted in this bill to help us truly build back better. As we now consider this historic legislation in the Senate, I’m committed to sending it to the President’s desk and delivering a better future for the American people. Let’s get it done.”

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