Today Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) and Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass) introduced their much anticipated energy and climate bill legislation, the Clean Energy Jobs & American Power Act. Boxer, who chairs the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works is slated to hold hearings on the legislation in the next few weeks. The House passed a companion bill in June.

The following is a statement from Earthjustice President Trip Van Noppen:

“We commend Senators Kerry and Boxer for their leadership in confronting one of the biggest challenges of our time. They share our vision of a clean energy future that addresses the heat-trapping pollutants responsible for climate change and puts America back in control of our economy, our security and our children’s future.

“For years we’ve relinquished control of our energy sector to other countries and to big corporate interests. Holding polluters accountable and investing in clean energy here at home will not only address the crisis of climate change but create jobs and put money back into the pockets of Americans.

“Naysayers ignore both the real costs of global warming and the economic benefits of a rapid shift to clean energy. They are intent on derailing and delaying action, but today’s announcement proves that momentum is building. Americans know we have everything to gain in confronting this challenge and implementing solutions.”