FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

March 30, 2023

MEDIA CONTACT: 

e: brian.phillips@mail.house.gov

c: 202.913.0126

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), senior member of the House Committee on Homeland Security and the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, released the following statement following the passage of H.R. 1, the “Polluters Over People” Act:

“The Polluters Over People Act from MAGA Republicans is another step in their extreme agenda to cut Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, and increase taxes on average Americans for handouts to oil and coal companies. At this pivotal moment in our fight against the climate crisis, it’s unacceptable for Republicans to eliminate significant climate programs passed under the Inflation Reduction Act and eviscerate environmental protections that help protect the health and safety of our communities. Republicans refused to accept the common-sense amendments I offered to this legislation when the Energy and Commerce Committee considered the bill, making it clear they are not interested in any meaningful, bipartisan action to address our nation’s energy needs. I was proud to vote against this ill-conceived giveaway to the wealthy and well-connected,” said Congresswoman Clarke.

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Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke has been in Congress since 2007. She represents New York’s Ninth Congressional District, which includes Central and South Brooklyn and serves as First Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.