I want our grandchildren to have a clean, safe environment in which they can thrive and grow. During my time in Congress, I have supported clean energy initiatives that help preserve the air we breathe and the water we drink, while creating jobs here at home and strengthening our national security. I believe the best way to protect our environment -- and economy -- is to invest in the technology that will reduce our reliance on foreign oil and expand our use of wind and solar energy sources.

That’s why I supported the American Clean Energy and Security Act that caps carbon emissions, mandates energy-saving standards for appliances and buildings, and protects consumers from energy cost increases. The American Clean Energy and Security Act  also creates nearly two million green jobs, invests in new industries that will grow our economy and reduces the pollution that is damaging our atmosphere.

In the 111th Congress, I also supported the Cash for Clunkers program that decreased the number of gas-guzzling cars on our roads.

I also supported legislation that made historic investments of nearly $70 billion in clean American energy, through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act, which has created green jobs and spurred clean energy research. Funding from the Recovery Act ensures our nation’s place as a leader in a global high-tech energy economy by investing in and supporting sustainable energy initiatives across the country, including numerous projects located in the 10th District. Recovery Act funds are supporting clean energy technology projects in my district like the Alternative Energy Research at Brooklyn College and the energy-efficient conversion of the Brooklyn Post Office.

As chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, I am committed to ensuring that the federal government reduces its energy consumption and costs.  I am committed to working with federal agencies and Congress to continue the promotion of green technology and support for clean energy initiatives that will reduce harmful pollution, free us from our dangerous dependence on foreign oil and save taxpayer dollars by decreasing energy costs.