The following statement is from Earthjustice senior legislative representative Sarah Saylor in response to today’s introduction and rollout of the American Power Act by bill co-sponsors Senators John Kerry (D-MA) and Joe Lieberman (I-CT):

“We have been calling for the Senate to take immediate steps to address climate change on a national level, and we commend Senators Kerry and Lieberman for taking up the charge.

“Putting a federal limit on carbon emissions, as the American Power Act would do, is a good start, but we still need the Senate to do more.

“This legislation should allow states to continue to lead on climate change solutions, close loopholes that give the worst polluters a free pass, and ensure strong protections against oil spills along our coasts.

“We will continue to urge Senate leaders to strengthen this bill at every step along the way, building upon the laws we currently have to hold polluters accountable and combat climate change.”