SEEC Opposes Republican Attack on Clean Vehicles and Cleaner Air

Washington, D.C. – The leaders of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC), including Co-Chairs Reps. Doris Matsui, Mike Quigley, and Paul Tonko, Vice Chairs Reps. Don Beyer, Matt Cartwright, Sean Casten, Chellie Pingree, and Katie Porter, and Chair Emeritus Rep. Gerry Connolly, released the following statement in response to the passage of the Republican-led “Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act” (H.R. 1435) that will severely limit the United States’ ability to reduce dangerous air pollution from the transportation sector for the health and well-being of American citizens.

“Today represents yet another Republican attack on our right to breathe clean air and live on a safe and habitable planet. Years of scientific research have demonstrated that millions of Americans are exposed daily to dangerous air pollution. With the transportation sector making up nearly one-third of total U.S. greenhouse gas pollution, setting strong vehicle emission standards is one of the most effective ways to protect the health of our communities from not only air pollution but also the devastating impacts of the climate crisis.

“The clean vehicle revolution is already well underway, both in the United States and abroad. This Republican rollback on clean air protections will only create unnecessary uncertainty in the U.S. automobile market that is rapidly innovating and delivering clean and affordable transportation to the American people.

“It is undeniable that America is on the cusp of a clean energy boom. Yet, Republicans are seeking to backpedal at the cost of public welfare, consumer savings, and the growing American clean energy economy. We at SEEC know there is no turning back now on a clean and prosperous future for all Americans.”