State legislators announce legislation to transition Pennsylvania to 100 percent renewable energy

PennEnvironment

[Harrisburg, PA] — State Rep. Chris Rabb (D-Philadelphia) and state Senators Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-Montgomery & Delaware Counties) and Katie Muth (D-Chester & Montgomery counties) announced on Saturday that they would be introducing legislation in the State House and State Senate that would require Pennsylvania to get 100 percent of its energy from renewable sources by 2050.

The legislation’s goal is to achieve the recommendations put forth by the state, federal and international scientific community to avoid the worst effects of climate change: eliminating global warming pollution by 2050 to avoid a climate change “tipping point” from which the planet cannot turn back.

As the dangers of the climate crisis become more present each day, Pennsylvanians are calling on their elected leaders to take this kind of bold action to protect the commonwealth for generations to come. Polls show growing bipartisan support from Pennsylvania voters for aggressive action to tackle climate change. 

Already, 7 states representing more than 68 million people have passed similar policies, including New York and Virginia.

PennEnvironment and the legislation’s sponsors  issued the following statements:

David Masur, Executive Director of PennEnvironment: “For far too long, Pennsylvania has been a huge part of the problem when it comes to climate change. With this legislation, Pennsylvania can be a part of the solution. When we look back on who had the political will to do what it takes to protect our planet from the far-reaching negative effects of global warming, this will be the group of legislators recognized for their work in Pennsylvania. 

State Representative Chris Rabb: “ Mother Earth’s dying, but we can save her! This bill ensures Pennsylvania’s doing its part.”

State Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti: “Pennsylvania is way behind where we need to be in terms of combating climate change. I’m pushing for Pennsylvania to move to 100% renewable by 2050. We need drastic legislative action to fight the existential threat of climate change. I hope my colleagues from both sides of the aisle will strongly consider signing onto this legislation and showing some unity when it comes to protecting our environment and our families.”

State Senator Katie Muth: “The time for addressing the climate crisis is running out and the clock is ticking.  Every moment of everyday must be used to implement plans and solutions to prevent further harm and protect the earth, the people living here now and generations to come.  We cannot continue to pollute the atmosphere, poison our water supplies, and further exhaust our natural resources.  Bold, urgent action is needed NOW.  Everyone needs to step up, work together, and let science lead the way.  The earth is our only home and this is the fight for our lives.”

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PennEnvironment is a citizen-funded environmental advocacy organization working to promote clean air, clean water, and protect Pennsylvania’s great natural heritage. For more information about this and PennEnvironment’s other work, visit www.PennEnvironment.org.