Freshman U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy, D-Fla., and five other members of Congress joined the Climate Solutions Caucus on Monday as that group nears 60 members.
The Climate Solutions Caucus defines it mission as “to educate members on economically-viable options to reduce climate risk and to explore bipartisan policy options that address the impacts, causes, and challenges of our changing climate." It was launched in February 2016 by two South Florida congressmen: Republican U.S. Rep. Carlos Curbelo and Democrat U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch.
Murphy weighed in on Monday as to why she joined the caucus.
“Climate change poses a threat to Florida’s economy and our way of life, but it also presents an opportunity for the state to step up and lead on this issue,” Murphy said. “Clean air and water shouldn’t be a partisan issue, which is why I’m proud to join the bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus. By working together across party lines, we’re leading the fight to reduce our carbon footprint, create well-paying clean energy jobs, and support research that addresses the threat to our communities. Florida must continue to lead the way in the development of alternative and renewable energies, and I’m working to ensure our beautiful state lives up to its full potential.”
Murphy also pointed to recent comments from the Defense Department--including from U.S. Defense Sec. James Mattis about the threat of climate change.
“Our military leaders agree that climate change is real and affects our nation’s ability to plan for and respond to threats,” said Murphy. “As a former national security specialist at the Department of Defense and as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I remain dedicated to bringing both parties together to address climate change and keep our nation safe.”
Other new members include Republican U.S. Reps. Jack Bergman of Michigan, Chris Collins of New York and Pat Tiberi of Ohio and Democrats U.S. Reps. John Larson of Connecticut and Nydia Velazquez of New York. With the new additions, there are 58 members of the caucus.
“The real-world implications of sea level rise have been on display for all to see in Texas, Florida and the Caribbean following Hurricanes, Harvey, Irma and Maria,” Curbelo said. “I’m grateful these members are willing to step up and turn their concern into action by joining the Climate Solutions Caucus. This growing bipartisan coalition will be critical to ensuring Congress makes finding solutions to this issue a priority.”
“These new members are joining the Caucus amid a devastating hurricane season, where major storms are gaining strength from the warmer waters in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico,” said Deutch. “We are witnessing the serious impacts of climate change right in front of our eyes. More and more members of Congress believe we need to respond to climate change right now, and I’m thrilled that they turn to the Climate Solutions Caucus as a forum for open and constructive dialogue.”
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