Springfield, IL – Today, in response to the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the Illinois Environmental Council (IEC) released the following statement from Executive Director Jen Walling:
“Since learning that Sens. Schumer and Manchin reached a deal on the climate provisions within the Inflation Reduction Act, IEC has engaged our affiliate members, the more than 100 organizations that make up Illinois’ environmental movement, and there has been a welcome sense of relief and hope across our movement at the prospect of once-in-a-generation climate legislation in Washington.
“Last year, Governor Pritzker signed the Climate & Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), the nation’s most equitable climate jobs bill which set the goal of 100% carbon-free power by 2045 and 100% clean energy by 2050. As a result, Illinois is uniquely positioned to leverage the federal investments in climate and clean energy lined up in the Inflation Reduction Act for shovel-ready projects that deliver jobs in Illinois communities where they’re needed most. These are jobs that, by design, are equitable and accessible to communities who have been historically disadvantaged and disinvested.
“With this historic House vote, we are stepping into a new future, one that works for everyone in Illinois. The Inflation Reduction Act may be the single biggest thing our nation has ever done to address climate change, but it certainly isn’t the last. Just as we are ready to build the clean energy future this historic bill supports, we are equally ready to keep fighting against more drilling, leasing, pipelines, and other dangerous measures that perpetuate environmental racism and the climate crisis.
“We are grateful to the members of Illinois’ congressional delegation who fought for bold climate investments to be included and we will work with them to ensure that we bring home these federal investment dollars to benefit the people of Illinois. Finally, we look forward to President Biden’s signature so that we can accelerate our transition to a healthier, more equitable, clean energy future as soon as possible.”
###
Since 1975, the Illinois Environmental Council (IEC) has worked to safeguard Illinois—its people, its plants and animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends by building power for people and the environment. Representing over 100 environmental organizations operating in Illinois and over 500 individuals in the state, IEC carries out its mission to advance public policies that create healthy environments across Illinois through education, advocacy and movement building. For more, visit ilenviro.org.