1Sky and a group of our allies recently sent a letter to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, asking for the opportunity to strengthen the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 (H.R. 2454). Our message was clear: Congress will need to stand strong against the special interests that seek to weaken the bill at every turn.

The letter, signed by 1Sky and a coalition of more than 10 other climate action and nonprofit groups, calls on the House of Representatives to further the work of the committees and pass strengthening amendments for renewable energy and energy efficiency, EPA authority, and green job development and protection of vulnerable communities that are impacted first and worst by climate change. We state that America has a chance to lead in the global race:

Yet, long-established energy industries have received concessions during the House committee negotiation process that have weakened this bill’s ability to deliver on the full promise of clean energy jobs, strong, inclusive and sustaining economy in the 21st century and reducing pollution. Many of the considerations granted the oil, coal, and electricity industries would preserve their market power and profits while transferring the cost of reducing pollution to the taxpayer. We believe that industries should pay to clean up their emissions, not demand loopholes, bailouts, and giveaways from the federal government.

Read the full letter text here and be sure to send a message to your representative now asking for a stronger clean energy future for America.