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Today, Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) voted in favor of H.R. 9, the Climate Action Now Act, a bold step forward in addressing the threat of climate change to our nation and our planet. H.R. 9 passed the House this afternoon. 

“I believe in science, and it’s clear that climate change is an urgent threat to our public health, infrastructure, economy, and national security,” said Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton. “This bill honors our commitment to the Paris Agreement, and lays the groundwork for further action to address this crisis.”  

“We can’t afford to sit by and wait on the sidelines--climate change is impacting Virginia today. The Fourth National Climate Assessment, a report prepared by our own federal scientists--and released under the Trump Administration--shows that we have more evidence than ever before that climate change is real and it is man-made.” 

“With the passage of H.R. 9, we are making a promise to our kids and our grandkids to confront the climate crisis and leave behind a healthier and safer planet.” 

Background on H.R. 9, the Climate Action Now Act:

• H.R. 9, the Climate Action Now Act, would prohibit any federal funds from being used to take any action to advance the withdrawal of the U.S. from the Paris Agreement.
   
• The Climate Action Now Act would also call on the President to develop and make public a plan for how the United States will meet the pollution reduction goals submitted to the world in 2015. The President has an obligation to lead on this issue and to help our nation achieve our commitment to the planet.
   
• By 5 to 1, Americans say we should stay in the Paris Climate Agreement, including majorities in every state and an overwhelming majority of Americans – in every Congressional District across the country – support cutting carbon pollution.
   
• And there is far-reaching support for the Paris Agreement from state, local, and tribal elected officials, business leaders, consumer, health and labor organizations, and more. More than 2,000 businesses and investors, 280 cities and counties and 23 states have independently pledged to meet our commitment under the Paris climate agreement. 

From the NRDC - Climate Change and Health in Virginia:

• Extreme heat is bad for Virginians’ health— and could become more deadly.
• Coastal floods are getting worse—and could disrupt emergency health services.
• Climate change could contaminate Virginia’s drinking water.
• Rising temperatures could make Virginia’s seafood dangerous to eat.
• Climate change puts Virginia’s progress toward cleaner skies at risk.
• Allergy seasons are getting longer and more severe.
• Mosquito and tick-borne infections are increasing.

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