WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) issued the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency’s plan announced yesterday to reduce carbon pollution from existing power plants across the country in the coming years:
“I applaud the administration on this bold plan to protect our planet and the health of this generation and those to come,” Himes said. “We simply can’t stand idly by while harmful carbon emissions continue to threaten the health and economic well-being of Connecticut’s residents. Today’s announcement builds on ongoing efforts to move the country towards a better energy and climate future, and demonstrates the nation’s commitment to being a global leader in energy innovation and combating climate change.”
The proposed Environmental Protection Agency rule provides a flexible state-based approach to reduce carbon emissions with a nationwide target of a 30% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 below 2005 levels. The proposed rule will bring public health and climate benefits worth up to $93 billion, preventing up to 6,600 premature deaths, 150,000 asthma attacks in children, and up to 490,000 missed work and school days. The proposed rule also promotes energy efficiency, which will lower utility bills while mitigating the harmful effects of climate change.