Senators Coons and Feinstein Introduce Climate Action Rebate Act of 2019

(Washington, D.C. – July 25, 2019) The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) today applauds Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) for their continued efforts to address the dangers of climate change.

According to the Senators, the Climate Action Rebate Act of 2019 is designed to reduce U.S. carbon emissions 55% by 2030 and 100% by 2050 (compared to 2017 emissions). The bill would establish a rising fee on most greenhouse gas emissions. The legislation would rebate the majority of revenues from the carbon fee to low and middle income Americans as a monthly dividend. The remainder of the revenues would be spent on infrastructure, energy innovation, and worker and community transition assistance.

EDF appreciates that the bill includes a version of an Environmental Integrity Mechanism. EDF believes that all carbon fee proposals should include specific emissions reduction targets and timelines, as well as provisions to ensure they are met.

“Every day we see new examples of the serious damage that climate change is doing across the country, and new evidence that we have to move quickly to protect Americans families and communities,” said Elizabeth Gore, EDF Senior Vice President of Political Affairs. “Sadly we are also seeing the continuing disregard the President and his Administration have for the current and future health of Americans. Fortunately, we’re seeing renewed momentum to find climate change solutions – on Capitol Hill and around the country. We appreciate the leadership of Senators Coons and Feinstein on this critical issue.”