Washington, D.C. — In response to the release of the House Interior-Environment and Energy & Water Appropriations Bills the League of Conservation Voters released the following statement from Conservation Program Director Alex Taurel:

“It is refreshing to see the House reject Trump’s irresponsible budget cuts and put forth spending bills that would increase investments to fight climate change, boost clean energy, protect communities from toxic pollution, and protect our lands and waters. The investments in these bills would help protect kids’ health and grow our outdoor recreation economy. We also appreciate what’s missing from these bills: anti-environmental policy riders that have no place in spending legislation.

In the Interior-Environment bill, LCV is  thrilled to see increases for the EPA that specifically address environmental justice and increased investments in our land management agencies such as the National Park Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service. While we’re pleased that the Land and Water Conservation Fund received a boost, the bill also demonstrates the need for full, dedicated funding at the $900 million authorized level to ensure we invest in the parks and public lands that fuel our outdoor recreation economy.

The Energy and Water bill is rightly focused on using the federal government’s resources to help fight climate change. The bill’s significant increases for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and scientific research respond to rising concerns about climate change and support for action to address the crisis. We strongly support these and other efforts to speed the transition to a clean energy economy.”

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