EDF Commends Barrasso and Carper for Strong, Bipartisan Climate Provisions in Surface Transportation Bill

(WASHINGTON, DC –July 30, 2019)—The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) today commends Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works Chairman John Barrasso (R-WY) and Ranking Member Tom Carper (D-DE) as well as Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Ben Cardin (D-MD) for successfully marking up America’s Transportation Infrastructure Act (ATIA).

For the first time, the transportation infrastructure bill would include a climate and resilience title. Given that the transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, this title is critical to not only reduce emissions across America and at our ports, but to invest in our infrastructure in ways that make our communities more resilient and safe. The bill will fund specific climate change investments such as electric vehicle infrastructure and carbon capture and sequestration technology. The bill also reauthorizes the highly successful Diesel Emissions Reduction Act; provides resources to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions; and includes safety programs to lower driver and pedestrian fatalities.

ATIA was unanimously passed on a 21-0 vote.

“Chairman Barrasso, Ranking Member Carper, Senators Capito and Cardin worked together to craft a bill that bolsters America’s infrastructure while protecting the environment and reducing carbon pollution. As a result of their bipartisan leadership, for the first time, we have a surface transportation bill that includes critical emissions reduction provisions and direct investments in climate resilience. By boosting natural infrastructure, strengthening electric vehicle and alternative fuel corridors, and improving carbon capture and sequestration technology, this bill is the right investment for a changing world and helps to put us on a path towards a 100% clean future.”

• Elizabeth Gore, EDF Senior Vice President, Political Affairs