News from California's Border Congressman

Environment


Headlines

 

March 4, 2011  

Congressman Filner: Don't Penalize Border Communities for Foreign Pollution

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner has introduced H.R. 325, the Foreign Air Impact Regulation (FAIR) AIR Act. The FAIR AIR Act stops border communities from being penalized for not meeting air pollution regulations due to pollution from a foreign country.

"We cannot put this international problem on the backs of those who simply happen to live along the border. We must find a bi-national cooperative solution to address this important issue," said Congressman Filner.

The bill would also provide areas that would have met these standards if not for the foreign emissions with an extension to develop and implement bi-national plans to improve air quality.

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March 1, 2011  

Congressman Filner Receives 100% on LCV Environmental Scorecard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The League of Conservation Voters (LCV) today issued a new National Environmental Scorecard, giving a 100% score to Congressman Bob Filner. The LCV scorecard announced today is an update to their yearly ratings to take into account recent Congressional votes.

"With only two months into this new Congress, the Republican leadership has tried to take us back to a time before we had environmental protections," said Congressman Filner. "We cannot afford to have sewage on our beaches, while we subsidize the oil industry – it just makes no sense. I will do everything I can to fight this, quite frankly offensive, agenda of rolling back the protections we put in place over the past several decades."

These new scores take into account the environmental, public health, and energy votes taken on amendments to the House-passed spending bill.

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February 17, 2011  

San Diego Beaches to See More Raw Sewage Run-off

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On Wednesday evening, the Republican majority in the House of Representatives voted 228-203 to cut $10 million from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) budget intended to protect San Diego beaches from raw sewage run-off from Tijuana.

"San Diego residents have been plagued for decades by sewage run-off from Mexico, which flows north in the Tijuana River and into the Pacific Ocean. The Federal government has an obligation to the residents of Southern California to keep raw sewage out of our waterways and away from our beaches," said Congressman Filner. "Congressman Reed, from New York, boasts on his website about the passage of his amendment. If the shores of Lake Ontario were covered in raw sewage, he'd be singing a very different tune. The children of California should not be forced to swim in a cesspool!"

Congressman Filner voted against the amendment, along with Congresswoman Susan Davis. San Diego Congressmen Issa, Hunter, and Bilbray voted to kill the funding.

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Headlines

 

October 15, 2010  

Congressman Filner announces Jacobs Center selected to develop plan for the reuse of brownfields

SAN DIEGO, CA - Congressman Bob Filner announced today that the Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation was selected to be a Brownfields Area-Wide Planning Pilot Program recipient by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The project will be focused on The Village at Market Creek where 12 sites are suspected to be contaminated brownfields.

"I’m happy to announce that the Jacobs Center has been selected by the EPA to bring underused portions of The Village at Market Creek back to life," said Congressman Filner. "The Jacobs Center continues to bring the community together to create new opportunities in San Diego."

The Jacobs Center was one of only 23 recipients selected from across the nation to take part in the EPA pilot program to plan for the reuse of brownfields properties. The EPA is granting up to approximately $175,000 to each of the recipients under a cooperative agreement and/or direct technical assistance to help develop and implement a plan.

The plans will integrate site cleanup and reuse into coordinated strategies to lay the foundation for addressing community needs such as economic development, job creation, housing, recreation, and education and health facilities. Brownfields are properties where the presence or potential presence of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants may complicate the properties’ expansion, redevelopment, or reuse.

The EPA will work with the selected projects in 18 states and one territory to identify ways the planning effort can utilize local, state and federal resources to help implement area-wide efforts for housing, transportation, economic growth and healthy communities. Recipients will be able to leverage the Partnership for Sustainable Communities, a joint effort of the EPA, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Economic Development Administration, to identify potential resources to help move the community plans forward.

The EPA and its partner federal agencies will work with the recipients to:

  • Use the funds to identify potential future uses for brownfields properties.
  • Create a set of area-wide strategies that will help ensure successful assessment, cleanup and reuse of the brownfields sites.
  • Develop strategies for facilitating the reuse of existing infrastructure, including taking into account potential infrastructure investments needed to accommodate alternative future uses of brownfields properties.

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October 5, 2010  

Congressman Filner Fights for Family Farms

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner took a stand in Washington for family farms and conservation efforts by recently co-sponsoring a bill to protect family-owned ranches and farmland.

"Estate taxes should not force families to sell their farms," said Congressman Filner. "We must protect family-owned farms and ranches, and provide incentives for lasting rangeland conservation."

The estate tax was implemented to ensure that heirs of the wealthiest estates would not benefit unfairly from accumulated family wealth. Over time, increasing land values have had the unintended consequence of forcing traditional family farms and ranches to pay the estate tax. This has led to many farmers and ranchers having to sell parts of their property to pay the tax, resulting in smaller pieces of property and splitting up land that is important for wildlife habitat and watersheds.

The Family Farm Estate Tax Relief Act, H.R. 5475, would add a provision to the tax code allowing farmers and ranchers to defer payment of the estate tax as long as the land is owned within the family and remains in agricultural production. There is also a provision that would defer the tax for land placed into a conservation easement.

The bill is supported by the California Cattlemen’s Association, the Imperial County Farm Bureau, the California Chapter of the Nature Conservancy, and the California Wildlife Foundation, among others.

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September 30, 2010  

Congressman Filner announces $1.7 million for Seeley County Water District upgrades

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved a grant of $1,700,000 for the Seeley County Water District.

"This is great news for Seeley!" said Congressman Filner. "I’m happy to be able to announce that this funding will be going straight into our community and pay for much needed upgrades to our water system."

The funds come from the Rural Development division of the Department of Agriculture and will be used to replace the deteriorated water distribution valves and hydrants.

Rural Development financial programs support essential public facilities and services such as water and sewer systems, housing, health clinics, emergency service facilities and electric and telephone service.

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July 7, 2010  

Congressman Filner applauds $800,000 for San Diego Farm Bureau water conservation program

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Bob Filner applauded the announcement today that the San Diego Farm Bureau is slated to receive $800,000 in federal funds from the USDA for a five-year water conservation program.

"When I talk to ranchers and farmers they have two things on their mind, containing costs and making sure there will be enough water," said Congressman Filner. "This program will help our local agricultural businesses on both counts. This is a big deal for the environment and for our farmers and ranchers."

The money will go to the San Diego Farm Bureau for their San Diego County Water Enhancement Program, which is a five-year project to conserve and enhance agricultural water sources including groundwater, surface water, municipal water and recycled water.

The funding comes from the Agricultural Water Enhancement Program which was established by the 2008 Farm Bill as part of the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, a program administered by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). According to the NRCS California State Office, California received the largest share of funding, with a total of $6 million.

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June 15, 2010  

Congressman Filner calls on BP to direct dividends to special account for spill cleanup and victim compensation

WASHINGTON, D.C. - As BP board members debate whether to move forward with a scheduled dividend payment, U.S. Congressman Bob Filner joined 31 other members of Congress to call on the oil company to instead direct those funds to an escrow account dedicated to cleaning up the Deepwater Horizon spill and compensating its victims.

"It is time for the folks at BP to put their money where their mouth is," said Filner. "They continue to say they will pay any legitimate claims and now they need to give us some certainty of how that will happen. Directing dividend payments to an escrow account is the type of assurance that we need from BP to make sure victims will be taken care of and the spill will be cleaned up."

In a letter to BP CEO Tony Hayward, the House members urged BP to ensure it has the funds to pay the full costs of the devastating Gulf Oil spill by temporarily suspending its annual $10 billion dividend. Further, the group called on BP to establish an escrow account to cover cleanup and compensation costs – and to direct dividend payments to that account.

"Your company has affirmed its intention to pay the full costs of this devastating environmental and economic disaster," Filner and his colleagues wrote. "As those costs continue to rise – to $37 billion, by one estimate – the American people require an assurance that your company will be able to honor all legitimate claims."

These House members first wrote BP last week urging the company to suspend its dividend and public relations campaign until it fully remedies the Gulf catastrophe. Their latest letter builds on Senate Democrats’ proposal to create a $20 billion escrow account administered by independent trustees and available for compensation claims and cleanup efforts.

The letter, copied below, was signed by the following House members as of this morning, though the list continues to grow: Congress members Bob Filner, Peter Welch, Ed Markey, Lois Capps, Keith Ellison, John Olver, John Hall, Gabrielle Giffords, Rosa L. DeLauro, Ron Kind, Dennis Cardoza, Anna Eshoo, Mazie Hirono, Joe Courtney, Russ Carnahan, Jared Polis, Bill Owens, Dave Loebsack, Paul Tonko, Carolyn Maloney, Doris Matsui, Robert Brady, Bill Delahunt, Rush Holt, Timothy Walz, Pete Stark, Raul M. Grijalva, Betty Sutton, Steve Cohen, Maurice Hinchey, Michael Capuano and Michael Michaud.

Tony Hayward
Chief Executive Officer
BP
1 St James's Square
London
SW1Y 4PD

Dear Mr. Hayward,

As BP board members debate whether to issue a second quarter dividend payment, we renew our call to suspend the dividend and, further, we urge you to direct such funds to an escrow account dedicated to cleaning up the Deepwater Horizon spill and compensating its victims.

Your company has affirmed its intention to pay the full costs of this devastating environmental and economic disaster. As those costs continue to rise – to $37 billion, by one estimate – the American people require an assurance that your company will be able to honor all legitimate claims.

President Obama and 54 members of the U.S. Senate have called for the establishment of an independently administered $20 billion escrow account, which would be available to cover cleanup costs and economic damages. We join them in their request and further call on BP to divert future dividend payments to this account until such time that all cleanup and compensation costs are fully covered.

Sincerely,

Bob Filner
Member of Congress

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May 13, 2010  

Congressman Filner backed geothermal project gets underway in Imperial County

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Bob Filner announced that Catalyst Renewables and their partners have completed financing and are ready to begin construction today on the Hudson Ranch 1 geothermal plant in Imperial County.

"This project is critical to economic development in Imperial County and I’m glad I could help make sure they got the funds they needed to move forward," said Filner. "Not only will this bring jobs to the region, it will serve as an example of how we can create energy without sacrificing the environment."

Congressman Filner was successful in helping secure $105,000,000 in federal stimulus funds for the geothermal plant, which was essential to completing the financing for the project.

"This project is a perfect example of the results we can generate as a part of Project SOL. Through Project SOL I am working to increase collaboration between various levels of government and private industry to make Imperial Valley the renewable energy capital of the world," said Filner.

According to Catalyst Renewables, construction will last 21 months and create 125 full time equivalent jobs with an estimated payroll of $21,145,000. Power production operations are planned to begin by the end of 2011. To operate the plant, 40 new jobs will be created, with another 10 full time jobs in El Centro. The new entity will be named "EnergySource."

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May 12, 2010  

Congressman Filner: Ban offshore drilling on West Coast

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner recently signed onto legislation that would permanently prohibit oil and gas leasing and drilling off the coast of California, Oregon and Washington.

"The Louisiana spill shows us the high cost of drilling off our coasts," said Filner. "Offshore drilling isn’t worth risking the environmental and economic health of the West Coast. We must protect our coastal and marine environments from new drilling and instead invest in renewable energy alternatives and work to build a green economy."

The bill, the West Coast Ocean Protection Act of 2010, was authored by Congressman John Garamendi.

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April 1, 2010  

Filner Honors 40th Anniversary of Earth Day!

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner recently co-sponsored H.Con.Res. 255, a resolution commemorating the 40th anniversary of Earth Day and honoring the founder of Earth Day, the late Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin.

"Gaylord Nelson is recognized as one of the leading environmentalists of the 20th Century, and helped launch an international era of environmental awareness and activism," stated Filner. "April 22nd will mark the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day, a milestone all Americans should celebrate!"

Gaylord Nelson grew up in Clear Lake, Wisconsin. He served in the Wisconsin State Senate from 1949 to 1959, as Governor of the State of Wisconsin from 1959 to 1963, and in the United States Senate from 1963 to 1981. He founded Earth Day, which was first celebrated on April 22, 1970, by 20 million people across the United States, making the celebration the largest environmental grassroots event in history at that time.

The establishment of Earth Day launched an unparalleled period of legislative and grassroots activity that resulted in passage of major pieces of environmental legislation from 1970 to 1980, including the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the National Environmental Education Act.

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February 10, 2010  

Congressman Bob Filner Supports Establishment of Centers of Excellence for Green Infrastructure

Congressman Bob Filner recently co-sponsored the Green Infrastructure for Clean Water Act (H.R. 4202), legislation that would establish centers of excellence for green infrastructure.

"We need to encourage water conservation in Southern California," stated Congressman Filner. "These centers of excellence will be models for communities and businesses in sustainable growth and water usage."

Many water resources in the United States are declining, particularly in urban areas. This decline of water resources is the result of an increase in population, water consumption, and impermeable surfaces; as well as the negative effects of urbanization, commercial and industrial activities, and climate change. An October 2008 study by the National Research Council found that some of the benefits of green infrastructure include increased water supplies, the creation of green jobs, cost savings, and a reduction of stormwater runoff, surface water discharge, stormwater pollution, and stormwater flows.

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Headlines

 

December 4, 2009  

Congressman Bob Filner Urges President Obama to Seek Strong CO2 Regulations!

Today, as world leaders prepare to gather in Copenhagen for the United Nations Climate Change Conference, Congressman Filner and Congressman Kucinich, along with twelve of their colleagues, sent a letter to President Barack Obama urging him to seek an agreement with world leaders on an ultimate goal of lowering and maintaining the level of CO2 in the Earth’s atmosphere of 350ppm.

"Science tells us that unless we aggressively reduce the level of CO2 in our atmosphere, global warming will irrevocably change our planet forever" said Congressman Filner. "This is truly a global problem, and will require all our Earth’s leaders to work together to reduce the CO2 in our atmosphere."

A recent report from the United Nations Environment Program provided very specific consequences that will result from not lowering the level of CO2 in our atmosphere. These consequences include the loss of mountain glaciers, in turn affecting drinking water, irrigation and hydro-power for 20-25 percent of the world’s population and the acidification of the oceans, destroying shell-making creatures that provide the foundation for life in our seas. About 1 billion people depend upon the bounty of the oceans for food. Sea levels will rise six feet, inundating low-lying islands and coastal areas, and droughts in the Southwest United States will become more severe.

"If we are serious about combating global climate change we must agree to set a goal that will represent our best shot at averting the worst effects of climate change. The best science tells us that goal is 350 parts per million" said Congressman Kucinich.

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October 23, 2009  

Congressman Filner Votes to Boost Job Creation, Innovation in Solar Technology

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner has voted to boost job creation and provide real solutions to our energy needs by developing a concrete plan for the research and development of American-made solar technology. The Solar Technology Roadmap Act builds on the investments in the Recovery Act and the American Clean Energy Security Act to move our country toward energy independence and economic recovery.

"By laying out a strategic plan for the research and development of solar technology, we can reduce our dependence on foreign oil and spur economic growth at the same time," said Congressman Filner. "This is just one of many steps we’ve taken to boost our economy by implementing short-term fixes and making smart, targeted long-term investments in our future."

The Solar Technology Roadmap Act establishes a comprehensive process to facilitate the research, development and demonstration of American solar technology in partnership with the private sector. It requires the Secretary of Energy to appoint an 11-member committee to write, review and update a Solar Technology Roadmap.

The Roadmap will lay out objectives for solar technology research and development while accounting for, and mitigating, any negative environmental impacts. It will provide a path forward to make solar technology more dependable and widely available to American consumers. The Roadmap will also authorize the Department of Energy to award grants to entrepreneurs, research agencies and academic laboratories that are leading the field in solar tech development and solar manufacturing.

"This legislation ensures that we have a strategic plan to work with the private sector to spur American innovation and unleash the full economic potential of our solar tech industry," added Congressman Filner. "It will help us create American jobs and lower energy costs for consumers while at the same time addressing one of our nation’s greatest challenges."

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October 2, 2009  

Bold Next Steps for Climate Change

The impacts of the climate crisis are already being seen around the world through increasing hurricane intensity, melting ice caps, and refugees fleeing extreme weather conditions. Here in Southern California, we are particularly vulnerable to a variety of threats posed by unchecked global warming – threats to our environment, our economic stability, and our overall quality of life.

While residents of San Diego are no strangers to drought and emergency water conservation measures, climate change will bring a new generation of drought’s stranglehold on our communities as we see our water supply shrink from increasing average global temperatures. Local Scripps researchers concluded in an April 2009 report that if human-induced global warming continues to reduce runoff from the Colorado River, San Diego will be unable to deliver a regular water supply to the region (The press release can be found online at http://scrippsnews.ucsd.edu/Releases/?releaseID=977).

The impacts of permanent drought span from the health of individuals living in a climate of intensifying heat, to the prosperity of our agricultural industry. Unchecked global warming could bring a permanent alteration of growing seasons that could cripple California’s status as the fifth largest agriculture and food supplier in the world. The effects would be felt tremendously in my district, which the most recent U.S. Department of Agriculture census ranked 9th in value of total agricultural products sold out of California’s 53 congressional districts. Imperial County – which recently topped the Associated Press’ Stress Index of counties hit hardest by the current recession – cannot afford a threat of this level to an industry that supplies one fourth of the county’s jobs. The University of California estimates that the total economic impact of vegetable crops to communities in Imperial County is around 1.5 billion dollars.

California led the way in tackling climate change by adopting the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (A.B. 32), the first state-wide law in the U.S. that commits the Golden State to the essential emissions reduction targets outlined by scientists. Cities all over the State, including Chula Vista and San Diego, also are implementing localized plans to tackle climate change.

Not only the government, but also the San Diego industrial sector is recognizing the incredible potential for a clean, green economy that can come from implementing climate solutions. In a report by the U.S. Conference of Mayors last October, San Diego ranked 9th in the top 25 metro areas for green jobs. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 569 is responding to this tremendous opportunity to protect the environment, create career pathways out of poverty and help strengthen our middle class. Thousands of skilled workers throughout our region are trained and ready to implement everything from energy efficiency retrofits to wind and solar power systems. IBEW Local 569 continues to train new apprentices to power the clean energy economy and usher in a new era of prosperity for San Diegans.

Unfortunately, the efforts of citizens in San Diego and our lawmakers across California, while significant, are not enough to seriously tackle rapid global climate change – our federal government must follow suit. In fewer than 100 days, world leaders will unite at the United Nations (UN) climate talks in Copenhagen to negotiate a new global warming treaty. It is imperative that President Obama commit to emissions reduction targets that are based in science, not political compromise. According to the latest findings by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the UN’s research body on climate change, industrialized nations like the U.S. must reduce their greenhouse gas emissions at least 34 percent below current levels by 2020 in order to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Recently, I voted for federal legislation known as the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES). However, ACES does not sufficiently reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions – it is just the beginning.

I urge my colleagues in the Senate to strengthen ACES, the federal Climate Bill, by removing giveaways to polluters, by strengthening the emissions reduction targets, and by increasing the renewable energy standard to at least 20 percent by 2025 so that the U.S. truly invests in a green economy.

Bold legislation in the U.S. is the only way we can send a signal to the world that we are committed to a global effort to address the climate crisis. Without significant action on our part to account for our centuries of industrial pollution, we cannot expect the rest of the world to act with the sense of urgency required to make real headway on this critical issue. While Congress works to create policies at home, I urge President Obama to show the world at December’s climate talks in Copenhagen that the U.S. will commit to nothing short of what scientific facts dictate we must do.

Congressman Bob Filner Representative for California’s 51st Congressional District

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August 20, 2009  

Rep. Filner Announces Funding for Chula Vista Small Business Innovation Research Program

Congressman Bob Filner is pleased to announce that $99,753 has been awarded to Ebert Composites Corporation in Chula Vista through the U.S. Department of Energy Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The Ebert Composites Corporation project seeks to lower the cost of wind energy installations by developing more durable, lightweight, and corrosion resistant wind turbine materials.

"I am pleased that these federal dollars will help a local company create improved green technology," said Congressman Filner.

The Department of Energy selected 62 grant applications for funding under Phase I of the SBIR program. During the Phase I grant period, each company will attempt to determine the feasibility of its innovative concept. After completion of Phase I, each grantee will be eligible to compete in fiscal year 2010 for Phase II funding, which is the principal research and development phase of the program.

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July 18, 2009  

Congressman Filner Votes To Spur Economic Recovery, Innovation In Energy Technology

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner has voted to boost job creation and provide real solutions to our energy and water quality needs with investments in new technologies, scientific research and conservation efforts. The Energy and Water Appropriations Act builds on the investments in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to move toward American energy independence and rebuild our infrastructure – major tenets of the long term economic plan that President Obama laid out and this Congress approved.

"By spurring innovation to generate American-made energy from solar to biofuels, and reducing our dependence on foreign oil, we will put our economy on sound footing," said Congressman Filner. "Our economic recovery depends on making smart, targeted investments like those in this energy and water infrastructure bill. With this bill, the House continues to pass its appropriations bills on time and under budget."

The Energy and Water Appropriations Act invests in new technologies that will create the next generation of vehicles with improved fuel efficiency, better and cleaner engines and better batteries. It also helps modernize our electric grid by investing in "smart grid" technology that will ensure efficient and reliable delivery of electricity to American homes and businesses.

The bill increases funds for weatherization grants to help struggling families improve their homes’ energy efficiency and save hundreds of dollars annually in electricity and heating costs. It also invests in the water infrastructure needs of our communities to improve water quality and spur economic development after years of neglect.

"At the same time as we make these investments, we are looking closely at every line of our budget to eliminate and cut programs that aren’t working in order to reduce the deficit and put us on a path toward fiscal responsibility," said Congressman Filner.

The legislation makes significant cuts in funding for new nuclear weapons and instead shifts the focus to securing existing nuclear stockpiles. It also establishes a commission to evaluate alternatives to the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository for nuclear waste disposal.

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June 26, 2009  

Filner Votes to Clean Air, Drinking Water & Protect Natural Resources

Congressman Bob Filner has voted in favor of landmark legislation that will help to protect our air, clean up our waterways and restore our public lands. The Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act emphasizes reducing pollution in our air and water, cleaning up dangerous toxic waste sites, boosting the production of renewable fuels and encouraging energy efficiency. The bill also eliminates 6 programs and cuts funding for another 37 to maintain fiscal responsibility.

"This nation’s legacy lies in its magnificent natural resources," said Rep. Filner. "And with this bill, we can make real progress to clean up our water sources, spur the use and production of clean, efficient energy and help restore the splendor of our lakes, forests and parks."

The bill takes significant steps to reduce pollution in our water and air and provides aid to over 1,500 communities to improve their drinking water and wastewater systems. It also provides funding to clean up dangerous toxic waste sites and gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the tools it needs to study the impact of toxins and pollution on children.

"Our environment has a direct impact on the health and safety of our kids and our families," said Rep. Filner. "By passing this legislation, we can make sure our kids are drinking clean water and breathing clean air. There is no higher priority than protecting their health."

To support our national security objectives and economic recovery efforts, the legislation reduces our reliance on foreign oil and cuts the pollution caused by greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging consumer energy efficiency and the production of clean, renewable American energy. To help Americans save money and make wise environmental decisions, the bill allocates $50 million for the EPA’s successful Energy Star Program – which already saves consumers $14 billion a year in energy costs. The bill also dedicates funds towards the development of renewable clean energy sources on Federal lands and water.

"With this bill, we are making great strides towards meeting our goal of producing 36 billion gallons of renewable fuels by 2022 and boosting research in new renewable energy sources," said Rep. Filner. "The future of our country and our planet depends on the investments we make today, and I am proud to say that with the passage of this legislation and the Clean Energy Act, we can all look forward to a brighter future."

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June 10, 2009  

Congressman Filner Acts to Save Jobs, Save on Gas, and Reduce Pollution with "Cash for Clunkers" Vouchers

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Filner has voted in favor of a "cash for clunkers" program that will allow consumers to trade in their old, gas-guzzling cars for vouchers worth up to $4,500 to help pay for new, more fuel-efficient vehicles. The Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act will spur the sale of up to one million more fuel-efficient cars and trucks, while stimulating the ailing auto industry and reducing our dependence on foreign oil.

"This is a smart program that will help grow our clean energy economy, cut down on pollution, and save money at the pump as we reduce consumption by over 250 million gallons of gas," said Rep. Filner. "It goes a long way towards getting Americans back to work and behind the wheel of a cleaner, more environmentally-friendly car."

The legislation provides rebates for cars and trucks in the following four categories:

    Passenger Cars: The old vehicle must get 18 mpg or less. New vehicles with improvement of at least 4 mpg will get a $3,500 voucher. New vehicles with improvement of at least 10 mpg will get a $4,500 voucher.
  • Light-Duty Trucks: The old vehicle must get 18 mpg or less. New vehicles with improvement of at least 2 mpg will get a $3,500 voucher. New vehicles with improvement of at least 5 mpg will get a $4,500 voucher.
  • Large light-Duty Trucks: The old vehicle must get 15 mpg or less. New vehicles with improvement of at least 1 mpg will get a $3,500 voucher or trade-in of a "work truck." New vehicles with improvement of at least 2 mpg will get a $4,500 voucher.
  • Work Trucks: The old vehicle must be a pre-2002 model. New vehicles in the same or smaller weight class will get a $3,500 voucher.

The bipartisan legislation is supported by a broad coalition that includes the AFL-CIO, UAW, car dealers, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Manufacturers.

"Americans of all stripes have come together on this bill because it’s a win for the consumer, the economy, the environment, and the auto industry," said Rep. Filner. "We’re able to save American consumers money and save American jobs, at the same time we help our struggling auto dealers and continue down the path towards a cleaner, greener economy."

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June 5, 2009  

Congressman Filner Drives Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car, Celebrates Clean Fuel Technology

Congressman Bob Filner recently celebrated advances in clean fuel technology and drove a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle to kick off the 2009 Hydrogen Road Tour organized by the Department of Energy and a coalition of other groups and agencies.

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April 20, 2009  

Congressman Bob Filner Supports California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act

Congressman Bob Filner is co-sponsoring the California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act, H.R. 1906. This legislation would permanently prohibit oil and gas leasing and drilling off the coast of California.

"The Outer Continental Shelf is a critical ecosystem," said Congressman Filner. "We must protect our coastal and marine environments from new drilling and, instead, invest in renewable energy alternatives and work to build a green economy."

The bill was sponsored by Congresswoman Lois Capps (CA-23).

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April 7, 2009  

This Earth Day, doing nothing is not an option

By Congressman Bob Filner

From the air we breathe, to the water we drink, to the origins of our food – we depend on our environmental resources every day. That is why I have introduced legislation – the Military Environmental Responsibility Act (H.R. 672) and the Foreign Air Impact Regulation (FAIR) Air Act (H.R. 677) – to make our laws more effective and equitable when it comes to environmental regulations that keep our families healthy and safe.

If it becomes law, the Military Environmental Responsibility Act would do away with exemptions and require the Department of Defense to fully comply with existing Federal and State environmental laws. A coalition of organizations from around the country led by Citizens for Safe Water Around Badger – an activist group based at a former Army ammunition depot in Badger, WI – are organizing to support this bill. However, many feel that it is too politically ambitious to hold the military accountable for the environmental impact of its operations. I stand by my belief that communities around military structures should be protected equally from harmful waste and by-products, just like any other American city.

As California’s border Congressman, I am also concerned about the environmental impact of our proximity to Mexico, which has different environmental standards than the United States. I introduced the FAIR Air Act to prevent border communities in the U.S. from being penalized for not meeting air pollution regulations due to emissions from a foreign country. We can’t put this international problem on the backs of local governments that happen to be along the border. The solution requires bi-national cooperation and it is critical that we work towards that end. We all breathe the same air! Therefore, for communities that would meet air quality standards if not for foreign pollution, the FAIR Air Act would grant an extension to implement bi-national improvement plans.

I would also like to encourage adults to use this Earth Day as an opportunity to learn about science with the kids you care about! Many Earth Day activities at schools and in our communities use science to help us understand issues like Climate Change, ocean pollution, protecting wildlife habitat, or the impact that toxic chemicals can have on our health. Future generations will need to tackle these issues and, even if your child doesn’t choose to be a scientist someday, science is a tool we should all be comfortable using to understand and solve the planet’s problems and how they affect our health.

I have started Project SOL (Sharing Our Light) to bring different organizations to the table with the purpose of greening our community and our economy, especially by harnessing the power potential of the sun here in southern California. I’m working with groups such as the Environmental Health Coalition and the Sierra Club to promote energy efficiency and clean, green energy for our region. If you have any ideas about how we can further promote environmental projects and create green jobs, I encourage you to contact me through my District Office at (619) 422-5963. Thank you for all the good work you do!

Congressman Bob Filner
Representative for California’s 51st Congressional District

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February 23, 2009  

Congressman Filner Calls for Proper Environmental Mitigation Measures for the California Border!

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Filner is urging the newly appointed Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Ken Salazar to include, on a list for funding and implementation, environmental mitigation projects along the California border with Mexico related to border security efforts.

"Unfortunately, vital environmental laws were waived last year when border wall construction was pushed forward, and it has caused damage to our border communities," said Filner. "I am glad that the DOI under the Obama Administration is taking steps in the right direction to evaluate the environmental impacts of border security efforts and to address resulting problems, such as flooding."

Recently, the DOE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) entered into an agreement to facilitate mitigation measures associated with border fences and related infrastructure. The agencies will work together to minimize the negative impact of border security on public land resources along the border. As the DOI compiles a comprehensive list of mitigation projects, $50 million is set aside for their implementation from the FY 2009 Border Security, Fencing, Infrastructure and Technology Appropriation.

"The DOI absolutely needs to include mitigation projects along the California border, or else my district will continue to suffer the repercussions!" said Filner.

For Filner’s letter to Secretary Salazar, please click here.

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August 17, 2008  

Filner Secures Funding for the Imperial Valley Conservation Research Center

Congressman Bob Filner recently delivered a giant check for $340,000 in federal funding to the Imperial Valley Conservation Research Center (IVCRC). Pictured here with the Congressman are (from left): Gerardo Roman, Vice President of Agriculture Operations/California Ethanol & Power; Jose Modesto Fernandez, Sugarcane Specialist with Grupo Porres; Jose Amodor, Sugarcane Specialist with Texas Agrilife Research and Extension Center at Weslaco Texas; Benjamin Legendre, Sugarcane Specialist with the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center; Nora C. Batley, Vice President of Imperial Valley Matters/California Ethanol & Power; and Dick Kershaw, President of the IVCRC.

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June 27, 2008  

Bob Filner Takes Action Backing Energy Independence

Written by Imperial Valley News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - With gas prices in California averaging $4.60 Congressman Bob Filner today backed three pieces of legislation that will help make America become more energy independent and help provide relief to Americans struggling with high gas prices.

"Every day, families and businesses in California are suffering with record prices at the gas pump," said Congressman Filner. "Today, Congress continued to take action and I was proud to back legislation that will crack down on Wall Street speculators who experts say are driving up the price of oil, force oil companies to use the land they have to produce energy and make public transit more affordable."

Bills considered on the House floor recently included:

  • The Saving Energy Through Public Transportation Act of 2008. The bill gives grants to mass transit authorities to reduce public transit fares, giving consumers a cost-effective alternative to $4.60 per gallon gasoline. The bill’s $1.7 billion in mass transit grants for the next two years could also be used to expand transit services and for the escalating operating costs of public transportation and would be available to both rural and urban areas. The bill was approved by a vote of 322 to 98.
  • The Energy Markets Emergency Act. The Act directs the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to use it full authority and most potent emergency tools to curtail excessive speculation and other practices distorting the energy market. Rampant speculation has been cited as one cause of the spike in gas prices. The bill was approved by a vote of 402 to 19.
  • The Responsible Federal Oil and Gas Lease Act. The "Use it or Lose it" legislation forces oil companies to produce oil and gas, or diligently develop, the 68 million acres of public land they already have leased, but are not using to produce energy. This legislation was blocked by House Republicans and was not approved.

"I’m disappointed Republicans once again refused to push for more, safe domestic drilling when given the opportunity," added Congressman Filner. "Oil companies have already leased 68 million acres they aren’t using to produce energy. Big oil ought to be forced to use it or lose it. We know that when the U.S. has less than 2 percent of the world’s oil reserves, but uses 24 percent, we simply can’t drill our way to energy independence - but drilling in lands we already have set aside is a small part of the solution." Prior to these votes, Democrats have taken action to make America more energy independent and bring down the cost of gasoline. Democrats have previously passed legislation that has been signed into law that will suspend the filling of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve from June 30th through the end of the year, creating more supply - and potentially putting the brakes on higher prices. The House also approved the Gas Price Relief for Consumers Act of 2008. The legislation gives U.S. authorities the ability to prosecute anticompetitive conduct committed by international cartels, like OPEC, that restricts supply and drives up prices.

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April 22, 2008  

Congressman Bob Filner Pledges to Fight Global Warming

Written by Imperial Valley News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner today celebrated Earth Day and pledged to continue his work in Congress to protect the environment, fight global warming and spur a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous economy for the American people.

"We have a solemn responsibility to protect our planet and to ensure that we all have clean air to breathe and clean water to drink," said Filner. "Democrats have taken key steps forward, but much more work remains. I will continue to fight to end global warming and protect our environment for future generations."

Democrats have already taken several major steps forward by passing landmark legislation that addresses the global warming crisis while creating new green collar jobs, cutting energy costs and helping end our dependence on foreign oil.

The historic and bipartisan Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 has been signed into law and will increase vehicle fuel efficiency standards and help save American families $700 to $1,000 per year at the gas pump. New building, appliance and lighting efficiency standards included in the new law will save consumers $400 billion through 2030. Additionally, the new law will help save 5.3 billion metric tons in energy-related CO2 emissions from 2008-2030 and cut the growth in energy-related emissions of CO2 by 10 percent.

Democrats are also working to enact new legislation that will promote investments in renewable energy, create hundreds of thousands of good-paying green collar American jobs, and end multi-billion dollar subsidies to big oil companies. The Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act of 2008 would end unnecessary subsidies to Big Oil companies and invest in clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency. The bill extends and expands tax incentives for renewable electricity, energy and fuel, as well as for plug-in hybrid cars, and energy efficient homes, buildings, and appliances. The solar investment tax credit in this legislation alone will reduce carbon emissions by 240 million tons, or the equivalent of taking 52 million passengers cars off the road for one year.

While the House has passed this legislation, Republicans and President Bush oppose the Democratic effort to end subsidies for oil companies that are earning record profits.

"Oil prices are skyrocketing and our dependence on foreign oil threatens our environment and our national security," added Filner. "It is time to abandon the failed energy policies of the past and invest in the future."

Congressman Filner has long supported environmental safety and health. He has introduced H.R. 3366; the Military Environmental Responsibility Act, which would require the Department of Defense and all other defense-related agencies to fully comply with Federal and State environmental laws, including laws that protect public health and worker safety. Communities bordering military bases have less environmental protection than other cities in the nation just because they are hosts to the U.S. military. While these bases may bring economic opportunity or security to the region, it is important to ensure that the benefits do not come at the expense of public health.

Congressman Filner has also joined several Members of Congress, The Defenders of Wildlife, and the Sierra Club in opposing the Department of Homeland Security’s recent waiver of 36 environmental and historic preservation laws to complete the controversial border fence. Congressman Filner filed a notice of intent for an amicus brief to a petition filed by The Defenders of Wildlife and the Sierra Club challenging the constitutionality of the waivers.

The Congressman has also supported Governor Schwarzenegger’s lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), requesting that they reverse their decision to deny California’s petition to adopt more stringent greenhouse gas emission laws for cars and light trucks. Congressman Filner will also work with his colleagues to urge EPA Administrator Johnson to reverse the decision.

"Halting global warming and saving our environment will not happen overnight. Every person must make an effort to eliminate his or her carbon footprint and negative impact on the environment," said Congressman Filner. "We must work together to look for alternative energy sources and to protect our planet and our children."

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April 22, 2008  

Congressman Filner Celebrates Earth Day!
Pledges to Protect the Environment and Fight Global Warming

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner today celebrated Earth Day and pledged to continue his work in Congress to protect the environment, fight global warming and spur a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous economy for the American people.

"We have a solemn responsibility to protect our planet and to ensure that we all have clean air to breathe and clean water to drink," said Filner. "Democrats have taken key steps forward, but much more work remains. I will continue to fight to end global warming and protect our environment for future generations."

Democrats have already taken several major steps forward by passing landmark legislation that addresses the global warming crisis while creating new green collar jobs, cutting energy costs and helping end our dependence on foreign oil.

The historic and bipartisan Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 has been signed into law and will increase vehicle fuel efficiency standards and help save American families $700 to $1,000 per year at the gas pump. New building, appliance and lighting efficiency standards included in the new law will save consumers $400 billion through 2030. Additionally, the new law will help save 5.3 billion metric tons in energy-related CO2 emissions from 2008-2030 and cut the growth in energy-related emissions of CO2 by 10 percent.

Democrats are also working to enact new legislation that will promote investments in renewable energy, create hundreds of thousands of good-paying green collar American jobs, and end multi-billion dollar subsidies to big oil companies. The Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act of 2008 would end unnecessary subsidies to Big Oil companies and invest in clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency. The bill extends and expands tax incentives for renewable electricity, energy and fuel, as well as for plug-in hybrid cars, and energy efficient homes, buildings, and appliances. The solar investment tax credit in this legislation alone will reduce carbon emissions by 240 million tons, or the equivalent of taking 52 million passengers cars off the road for one year.

While the House has passed this legislation, Republicans and President Bush oppose the Democratic effort to end subsidies for oil companies that are earning record profits.

"Oil prices are skyrocketing and our dependence on foreign oil threatens our environment and our national security," added Filner. "It is time to abandon the failed energy policies of the past and invest in the future."

Congressman Filner has long supported environmental safety and health. He has introduced H.R. 3366; the Military Environmental Responsibility Act, which would require the Department of Defense and all other defense-related agencies to fully comply with Federal and State environmental laws, including laws that protect public health and worker safety. Communities bordering military bases have less environmental protection than other cities in the nation just because they are hosts to the U.S. military. While these bases may bring economic opportunity or security to the region, it is important to ensure that the benefits do not come at the expense of public health.

Congressman Filner has also joined several Members of Congress, The Defenders of Wildlife, and the Sierra Club in opposing the Department of Homeland Security’s recent waiver of 36 environmental and historic preservation laws to complete the controversial border fence. Congressman Filner filed a notice of intent for an amicus brief to a petition filed by The Defenders of Wildlife and the Sierra Club challenging the constitutionality of the waivers.

The Congressman has also supported Governor Schwarzenegger’s lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), requesting that they reverse their decision to deny California’s petition to adopt more stringent greenhouse gas emission laws for cars and light trucks. Congressman Filner will also work with his colleagues to urge EPA Administrator Johnson to reverse the decision.

"Halting global warming and saving our environment will not happen overnight. Every person must make an effort to eliminate his or her carbon footprint and negative impact on the environment," said Congressman Filner. "We must work together to look for alternative energy sources and to protect our planet and our children."

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February 29, 2008  

Filner Criticizes EPA Denial of California’s Improved Emission Standards

Earlier this week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) denied California’s petition to adopt more stringent greenhouse gas emission laws for cars and light trucks. EPA Administrator Steve Johnson stated that California does not have the "compelling and extraordinary conditions" required for a waiver under the Clean Air Act, because the rest of the nation also suffers from the effects of global warming. However, the EPA has granted California such Clean Air Act waivers in the past.

"This is outrageous and unacceptable!" said Congressman Filner. "The EPA is obligated to protect the public from dangerous air pollutants that jeopardize our health and endanger public welfare, and they are failing to fulfill their duty. Global warming is a very compelling reason to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, and we cannot let the Bush Administration play politics with the environment. California has taken the first step and we must address these issues NOW!"

Governor Schwarzenegger has already filed a lawsuit against the EPA to reverse the decision. Congressman Filner supports the lawsuit and will work with his colleagues to urge EPA Administrator Johnson to reverse the decision.

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February 28, 2008  

Filner Backs Plan To Invest In Renewable Energy, Create New Jobs
Bill Would Slash Handouts for Oil Companies, Protect Our Environment

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner today backed landmark legislation that will make significant new investments in renewable energy sources, create hundreds of thousands of new jobs, help end our dependence on foreign oil and slash taxpayer funded subsidies to oil companies. H.R. 5351, the Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act of 2008, was approved by a vote of 236 to 182.

"With oil prices reaching another record high of $102 per barrel today and families paying $3.15 a gallon for gasoline, the time for action on renewable energy and American energy independence is now. This bill is good for our environment, good for our economy and good for our national security," said Congressman Filner. "Ending our dependence on foreign oil and using renewable energy to help fight global warming will make our nation stronger. And at a time when our economy is struggling, these investments will help create hundreds of thousands of new jobs. "

The Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act makes new investments that will help reduce our dependence on foreign oil, increase renewable electricity production, create jobs and protect our environment. The bill extends and expands tax incentives for renewable electricity, energy and fuel, as well as for plug-in hybrid cars, and energy efficient homes, buildings, and appliances. Additionally, the bill includes solar energy tax credits that could reduce carbon dioxide pollution by 240 million tons.

The new investments in wind, solar, geothermal and fuel cell technology will also create hundreds of thousands of new jobs and help strengthen the American economy. The Geothermal Energy Association estimates that the geothermal provisions alone could create tens of thousands of new jobs and stimulate tens of billions of dollars of new investment in geothermal energy production.

Additionally, the legislation approved today repeals $18 billion in unnecessary tax subsidies for big, multinational oil and gas companies. The vote comes shortly after the big five oil companies recently reported record profits for 2007, with ExxonMobil earning $40.6 billion - the largest corporate profit in American history. While oil companies have profited, consumers have felt the pinch. The average cost of a gallon of gasoline in California is $3.34.

"Every day, families in California are feeling the pain at the gas pump and home heating oil costs are skyrocketing. All the while, big oil companies are making billions of dollars and receiving handouts from the government. It simply isn’t fair," added Congressman Filner. "I am proud to back legislation that will slash subsidies to oil companies, create jobs and help make our nation energy independent."

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January 28, 2008  

Congressman Filner Says Federal Government Should Help Solve Air Pollution Problems!

The Environmental Protection Agency recently announced that Imperial County failed to attain the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). NAAQS is a standard set to limit the presence of pollutants considered harmful to public health and the environment, including carbon monoxide, lead, ground-level ozone and many others. The EPA decision requires the State to submit a plan to EPA, which would bring the County back into compliance.

Congressman Bob Filner provided this statement:

Our communities should not be penalized for living near international borders. Air pollution does not stop at political boundaries! Imperial County needs federal help to develop and implement bi-national plans to improve air quality.

I have introduced legislation, H.R. 3365; the Foreign Air Impact Regulation (FAIR AIR) Act, which would stop the EPA from punishing Imperial County and other areas suffering from the impact of foreign pollution until a comprehensive plan is implemented, one that would require both federal and local action!

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December 18, 2007  

Filner Backs Landmark Energy Legislation
Bill Will Make Vehicles More Efficient, Cut Energy Costs, and Combat Global Warming

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner today backed the Energy Independence and Security Act, landmark energy legislation that will make America more energy independent, cut energy costs for families, reduce global warming, and grow our economy. The historic legislation was passed by a vote of 314 to 100 and will be sent to the President, who is expected to sign the bill into law tomorrow.

"For too long, Congress has failed to address our energy challenge, and consumers in California have paid the price," said Congressman Filner. "Today, the New Direction Congress reversed that sad legacy and made key energy reforms a reality."

The Energy Independence and Security Act will increase vehicle fuel efficiency to 35 miles per gallon in 2020—the first congressional increase in 32 years – and slash U.S. oil consumption by more than 4 million barrels per day by 2030. The legislation also expands the use of American-grown biofuels to 36 billion gallons in 2022 increases the efficiency of buildings, homes, appliances, and lighting. All totaled it cuts greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 by up to 24 percent of what the U.S. needs to do to help save the planet.

The legislation will also save money for American consumers and strengthen the economy. Increased vehicle fuel efficiency will save American families $700 to $1,000 a year at the pump and the new building, appliance, and lighting efficiency will save consumers $400 billion through 2030. Additionally, the development of biofuels and support for cutting-edge energy research will create hundreds of thousands of new jobs.

"Families are paying too much on the gas pump and our nation is weakened by our dependence on oil from the Middle East," said Filner. "Our bill will end our reliance on foreign oil, save money for families and help fight global warming."

The bill is backed by a broad coalition of individuals and organizations from the environmental, labor, faith and business communities.

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December 5, 2007  

Filner Hails Passage of Historic Energy Security Legislation
Landmark Package Reduces Global Warming and Dependence on Foreign Oil

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Bob Filner joined a majority in the House to pass a historic and sweeping bill to put us on a path toward energy independence. This measure was approved by a vote of 235 to 181 and will strengthen our national security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil, lower energy costs, create economic growth and new jobs, and begin to address global warming.

"With the price at the pump skyrocketing to $3.36 per gallon here in California—and even higher in San Diego County, Congress has now taken swift and comprehensive action to build an energy independent future for America."

"Americans are ready to lead the world on clean alternative energy," said Congressman Filner. "Americans are ready to declare energy independence from foreign oil—to strengthen our national security, grow our economy, reduce energy costs, and end global warming."

"For too long, Washington has dragged its feet and denied the problem. It has let oil companies and foreign governments call the shots," said Congressman Filner. "The 110th Congress is taking America in a new direction. Our energy security plan is about reducing our dependence on foreign oil, relying instead on clean, renewable sources here in the United States, on American ingenuity, and on our entrepreneurial, can-do spirit."

The cornerstone of the Energy Independence and Security Act increases the fuel efficiency of vehicles to 35 miles per gallon by 2020. This is the first increase in a generation and is supported by environmentalists, labor groups and the automobile industry (CAFE). This provision will save American families $700 to $1,000 per year at the pump with $22 billion in net annual consumer savings in 2020. Here in California, this provision would create 19,900 jobs and save families $2.53 billion at the pump in 2020.

  • Lowers consumer energy costs. The bill requires for the first time that 15 percent of our electricity come from renewable sources saving consumers here in California from $1.28 billion to $1.35 billion in 2020. It also will save consumers $440 billion through landmark new energy efficiency standards through 2030 for a wide range of products, appliances, lighting and buildings.
  • Creates new jobs. The bill will create new jobs, with the investment in renewable energy through tax incentives for solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal technologies and cutting-edge energy research, creating good paying jobs in rural communities across the country through a historic commitment to biofuels, training workers for 3 million new "green" jobs over the next 10 years and making small businesses leaders in renewable energy.
  • Strengthens our national security by reducing oil consumption by more than 4 million barrels a day in 2030, through the CAFE standard and a historic commitment to American-grown biofuels.
  • The bill overall will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 35 percent of what is needed by 2030 to save the planet.

"This bipartisan legislation has earned strong support of leaders in the business, labor, faith and environmental communities across the nation. We hope the President will reconsider his threat to veto this legislation, because all Americans have a stake in our fight for energy independence and lower energy costs," urged Congressman Filner.

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June 15, 2007  

Filner Requests Public Meetings in Designating Power Line Corridors

Congressman Bob Filner co-sponsored H.R. 829, mandating that the Department of Energy conduct more public meetings to give state and local communities control over the process of designating corridors for massive transmission power lines. Congressman Filner has also signed on to a letter to Department of Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman requesting that the Department extend the comment period by at least 30 days and hold meetings in every congressional district to determine the impact of proposed designations.

"It is vitally important that impacted communities have the ability to be heard." Congressman Filner said. "Given the controversies these transmission corridors bring with them, all concerns must be addressed and that takes time."

H.R. 829 would also prohibit a corridor designation from encompassing lands on which such development is prohibited or limited to protect scenic, natural, cultural, or historic resources.

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November 8, 2007  

Filner Announces Water Resources Development Act Project Authorizations

Today, the Senate voted to override President Bush’s veto of the Water Resources Development Act. The House of Representatives voted to override the veto on Wednesday. Congressman Filner is pleased to announce that the following project authorizations, to benefit the 51st Congressional District, were included in the bill.

"We must fix our crumbling national infrastructure, including on our waterways. Enactment of WRDA is the first step! However, there is still more work to be done. We must keep the pressure on President Bush to increase appropriations for the Army Corps to carry out these critical projects!" said Congressman Filner.

  • Sweetwater Reservoir, San Diego County, California -- Project for aquatic ecosystem, Sweetwater Reservoir, San Diego County, California, including efforts to address invasive aquatic plant species.
  • Sweetwater Reservoir, San Diego County, California -- $375,000 to improve water quality, and remove non-native aquatic species from the Sweetwater Reservoir, San Diego County, California.
  • Imperial County, California -- $10,000,000 for wastewater infrastructure, including a wastewater disinfection facility and polishing system, to improve water quality in the vicinity of Calexico, California, on the southern New River, Imperial County, California.
  • Brawley Colonia, Imperial County, California -- $1,400,000 for water infrastructure to improve water quality in the Brawley Colonia Water District, Imperial County, California.
  • New River, California -- $10,000,000 for wastewater infrastructure to improve water quality in the New River, California.

The legislation also includes language authorizing $30 million to carry out pilot projects for the restoration of the Salton Sea.

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August 15, 2007  

Congressman Filner Introduces Military Environmental Responsibility Act

Congressman Bob Filner recently introduced the Military Environmental Responsibility Act (H.R. 3366). The bill would waive environmental sovereign immunity for the Department of Defense and force the military to comply with Federal and State environmental laws.

"Communities bordering military bases have less environmental protection than other cities in the nation just because they are hosts to the U.S. military. Until the Department of Defense is forced to comply with our country's environmental laws, public health and safety will be at increased risk from military pollution," Congressman Bob Filner said.

Late last year, the San Diego Naval Base piped more than 14 million gallons of raw sewage into the San Diego Bay. However, the Department of Defense did not have to pay any fines due to sovereign immunity.

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June 15, 2007  

Filner Requests Public Meetings In Designating Power Line Corridors

Congressman Bob Filner co-sponsored H.R. 829, mandating that the Department of Energy conduct more public meetings to give state and local communities control over the process of designating corridors for massive transmission power lines. Congressman Filner has also signed on to a letter to Department of Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman requesting that the Department extend the comment period by at least 30 days and hold meetings in every congressional district to determine the impact of proposed designations.

"It is vitally important that impacted communities have the ability to be heard." Congressman Filner said, "Given the controversies these transmission corridors bring with them, all concerns must be addressed and that takes time."

H.R. 829 would also prohibit a corridor designation from encompassing lands on which such development is prohibited or limited to protect scenic, natural, cultural, or historic resources.

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April 22, 2007  

On Earth Day 2007, Congressman Filner Says New Congress is Working to Address Global Warming and Make America More Energy Independent

Today, Earth Day, Congressman Filner called on the Bush Administration to begin working with the new Congress to curb global warming and achieve energy independence.

"On Earth Day, we must rededicate ourselves to addressing global warming and making America more energy independent," stated Congressman Filner.

"Global warming and our addiction to oil may be the greatest challenges of our time, putting at risk our economy, our environment, and our national security," Congressman Filner said. "We owe it to our children and grandchildren to act now."

"No longer can anyone deny the importance of global warming," said Congressman Filner. "Indeed, in February, the world's top climate scientists put out a landmark report that concluded that global warming is 'unequivocal' and that human activity is the main cause. The report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change was agreed to by more than 100 countries and is definitive. Indeed, February 2, 2007, will be remembered as the date when uncertainty was removed as to whether humans had anything to do with climate change on this planet."

"Unfortunately, the Bush Administration has long been acting as if global warming was not an urgent problem, and has been seeking excuses to avoid taking serious action," added Congressman Filner.

Congressman Filner said, "By contrast, the new Democratic-led Congress believes that, by focusing on rapidly expanding the production of clean, alternative energy and reducing our use of oil, our country can both reduce global warming and make America more energy independent."

"The new House of Representatives has already taken some key steps," pointed out Congressman Filner. "For the first time, the House has created a Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming. This Select Committee will play a key role in informing Congress and the public, developing policy initiatives, and assuring we make real progress over the next two years. In its first 100 hours, the House also passed a bill that repeals $14 billion in subsidies given to Big Oil companies and shifts those resources to investments in clean, alternative energy and energy efficiency. In addition, the House has already passed a budget that places a high priority on tackling global warming and making America more energy independent."

"The House is also launching a 'Green the Capitol' initiative, that will make the Congress a national leader for environmental stewardship and sustainable energy use," added Congressman Filner.

"By June, several House committees will report legislation to make America more energy independent and begin to address global warming," Congressman Filner pointed out. "Our legislative package, ready for July 4th, will be a starting point for a new energy policy for America - an energy policy that will focus on shifting away from imported oil and instead investing in clean, alternative energy sources. This package will call for significant new investments in renewable energy and improved energy efficiency that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, thereby helping to curb global warming."

"In addition, the House will be considering the Farm Bill, that will include extensive provisions on promoting biofuels," pointed out Congressman Filner. "The House will consider a real plan to energize the nation, calling on American farmers to fuel our energy independence. From corn in the Midwest, to soybeans in North Carolina, to sweet sorghum in Texas, we grow the crops that can be converted into the biofuels that power our cars. It is good for the environment, good for our economy, good for our farmers, and good for our national security."

"Later in the year and in 2008, the new Congress will also be taking additional steps to address global warming and energy independence," Congressman Filner added.

"In the House of Representatives, debate on global warming has been stifled for 12 years; we can't wait any longer," Congressman Filner concluded. "With American ingenuity and a commitment from Congress, we are moving in a new direction to permanently address global warming and make our nation energy independent."

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