Smith amendments aimed at addressing climate change

June 06, 2008

OREGON U. S. SENATOR
Gordon Smith

PRESS RELEASE: June 6, 2008
CONTACT: Lindsay Jackson, 202-224-3753

We Must Move Towards a Green Future

- Washington, D.C. - Today, Senator Gordon Smith continued his fight put America on a path toward clean and independent energy by pushing numerous green energy initiatives in the climate change bill currently being debated in the Senate. Senator Smith joined fellow Northwest Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) to introduce several provisions aimed at addressing climate change.

“The stakes are too high for America to take a back seat on climate change,” said Smith. “We must take the lead on this issue and make fundamental changes that will benefit not only our environment, but our economy and our national security.”

Smith introduced the following amendments:

Utilizing and Protecting Hydropower: Introduced with Senators Cantwell and Wyden to ensure hydropower additions at existing dams and wave and tidal energy are deemed as renewable energy sources. Hydropower is an abundant, 100 percent clean and renewable energy source. Senator Smith’s provision would guarantee that certain hydropower and ocean energy projects are developed and protected as viable renewable energy sources.
Promoting Green Roofs: Introduced with Senator Cantwell to create a tax credit for the installation of green roofs on residential and commercial property. Green roofs reduce storm water run off, reduce energy needs for heating and cooling and filter and absorb air pollutants.
Advancing Green Education: Introduced with Senator Wyden to provide over $200 million in grant funding to community colleges to spur the development and training of the next generation workforce for green collar jobs. Oregon is already a leader in green education – six Oregon community colleges already have existing renewable energy programs and degrees.
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