SEEC Statement on Retirement of Representative Rush Holt

Washington, D.C.—The House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) issued the following statement in response to Vice-Chair Rep. Rush Holt’s announcement that he would retire at the end of this Congress:

“On behalf of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition, we wish to thank our vice-chair, and a founding member, Congressman Rush Holt for his unparalleled environmental stewardship and commitment to scientific and research development during his career in Congress.

“Since first coming to Congress in 1999, Rep. Holt has dedicated himself to preserving our environment. In his first term, he successfully restarted the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)’s stateside grant program, the component of the Fund that facilitates state and local land and easement acquisition. He has passionately and effectively pursued policies to reduce carbon pollution while also better preparing our communities from the impacts of climate change.

“He tirelessly worked to protect our pristine coastlines from expanded offshore oil and gas drilling and where drilling is already occurring, he has fought for important workplace safety standards.

“Few members are as effective as Rep. Holt in expressing the importance of robust scientific funding to advancing a clean energy economy, furthering technical innovation, and maintaining our competitive edge.

“While it will be difficult to top his record as a five-time ‘Jeopardy!’ champion, we will strive to carry on his efforts and know that he will continue to champion a smarter and stronger environment for future generations in his future endeavors.”