Rep. Huffman Votes Against Bill that Cuts Energy & Environmental Research

May 20, 2015

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congressman Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) today released the following statement after voting against the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2015:

“The America COMPETES Reauthorization Act is nothing more than climate deniers’ latest assault on science masquerading as ‘fiscal responsibility.’

“It makes massive funding cuts to scientific research, hitting some disciplines with cuts as large as 55%, all while ignoring the incredible scientific and technological advances born out of the National Science Foundation and other federally-funded research programs.  Undermining investments in science and technology will only hurt our country—our economy is built on innovation. 

“Further, this bill specifically targets climate science: it makes massive cuts to research into alternative energies, it slashes ARPA-E by fully 50% and Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy R&D by 30%, and it forces federal agencies to ignore scientific research findings when developing oil and gas regulations.

“Congress should be aiding research and development, not suffocating innovation and attacking science. But it’s becoming increasingly clear that bills that promote scientific research and a greater understanding of our environment—or even those that contain the words ‘Climate Change’—have a snowball’s chance on the Senate floor of passing through this Congress.”

###