Senator Carper Votes to Protect Public Health and the Environment from Harmful Effects of Air Pollution

WASHINGTON – Today, Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.), Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Clean Air and Nuclear Safety, voted against several amendments that would undermine the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ability to regulate harmful pollutants under the Clean Air Act. The votes included amendments offered by Senator Baucus (#236), Senator Stabenow (#227), Senator Rockefeller (#215) and Senator McConnell (#183). The amendments are being offered to the Small Business Jobs Bill (S. 493), which is currently under consideration in the Senate.  

Sen. Carper also spoke on the Senate Floor this afternoon in opposition to Sen. McConnell’s amendment. To watch a video recording of his floor speech, please visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68YH3VSNwuo.  

A copy of Sen. Carper’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, follows:  

“Mr. President, the question before us is simple: can we protect our environment AND grow our economy? The answer is yes!  

“Forty years ago, naysayers claimed the Clean Air Act was too costly and it would doom our economy. We heard the same doom and gloom predictions in 1990 when we strengthened the Clean Air Act. But they were wrong!  

“Since 1970, the Clean Air Act’s benefits have outweighed costs by 30 to 1 and our Gross Domestic Product has grown 207%. Cleaner air has saved thousands of lives, billions in health care costs and grown our economy.  

“Now the naysayers warn that reducing carbon pollution will doom our economy. But history and science say they’re wrong!  

“If we don’t take action, it’s going to mean higher health care costs, destroyed coastlines and a continued dependence on foreign oil. That’s not a recipe for economic success.  

“Keep America on the right course, one that saves lives AND grows our economy. Join me in voting against the McConnell amendment.”  

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