Three ways to support Clean Energy Jobs
HB 2020, the Clean Energy Jobs bill, will receive public hearings around the state starting today, February 15th. The bill creates a Cap-and-Invest program to limit the state’s greenhouse gas emissions. This bill provides the opportunity for Oregon to become a national destination for cleantech investment and jobs by sending a clear, long-term signal to investors that Oregon’s clean energy market is poised for further expansion.
Despite the urgent need for climate action and the benefits this program would bring to Oregon’s economy, some industry groups are pushing back hard in opposition to a strong Cap-and-Invest program, and some legislators are dragging their feet.
To ensure a strong and ambitious bill gets over the finish line, your business voice needs to be heard. The economic benefits of this program are substantial, and lawmakers need to understand that the business community supports the Clean Energy Jobs bill.
There are three opportunities for your voice to be heard:
1. Add your signature to an Oregon business community letter that outlines the economic and environmental case for Cap-and-Invest in Oregon. This letter will be shared will all members of the state legislature as one part of E2’s lobby day on February 20.
Review the letter, and let us know if we can add your name by clicking:
Add my signature to the E2 letter in support of Cap-and-Invest
2. Submit written testimony from your company. Email it to jccr.exhibits@oregonlegislature.gov no later than March 1st. Make it personal - talk about solar jobs and reducing your customers energy bills.
3. The most impactful option - testify in person! There are six public hearings around the state, please attend one to testify.
Salem: Friday, February 15th from 1 – 3 pm at the Capitol, 900 Court Street NE, Hearing Room F
Salem: Monday, February 18th from 5 – 8 pm at the Capitol, 900 Court Street NE, Hearing Room F
Springfield: February 22nd from 12 - 3 pm, Springfield City Hall
Medford: February 23rd from 9 am to 12 Noon, Central Medford High School
The Dalles: March 1st from 12 – 3 pm, The Dalles Civic Auditorium
Bend: March 2nd from 9 am to 12 Noon, Central Oregon Community College
Here are some tips for public testimony:
Each person will likely have 2-3 minutes
How to testify: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/citizen_engagement/Pages/How-to-Testify.aspx
Make your testimony personal and relevant.
If you have questions about testifying, please contact Angela at angela@oseia.org
Thank you!