Dear Mrs. Ware:



Thank you for writing to express your opposition to the "American Clean Energy and Security Act" (H.R. 2454). I appreciate hearing your thoughts about this bill, and I welcome the opportunity to respond.



As you know, on June 26, 2009, the House of Representatives voted 219-212 to approve the "American Clean Energy and Security Act," which caps greenhouse gas emissions from major U.S. sources, requires electric utilities to meet 20 percent of their electricity demand through renewable energy and energy efficiency by 2020, invests $190 billion in new clean energy technologies and energy efficiency, and mandates new energy-saving standards for buildings, appliances, and industry.



I understand your concern that a global warming bill could increase costs, so I will watch that carefully now that the issue is before the Senate. However, I do believe that new jobs will be created as wind, solar and other new forms of energy are developed. The key is to replace fossil fuel use with clean energy - and that will produce jobs.



I believe that there is convincing scientific evidence that climate change is happening, and I have come to conclude that the cost of failing to act far exceeds the cost of taking the necessary steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and make a permanent shift towards clean, renewable energy and energy efficient technologies. Please know that I appreciate hearing your concerns and remain committed to advancing measures that address climate change, create jobs and increase our energy independence. I will be sure to keep your thoughts in mind when comprehensive climate legislation comes before the Senate this fall.



Again, thank you for writing. If you have further questions or comments, please contact my office in Washington, D.C. at (202) 224-3841. Best regards.




Sincerely yours,

Dianne Feinstein
United States Senator