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DENVER, CO – Democrats on the House Energy & Environment Committee today defeated a bill rooted in climate change denialism. HB24-1246, sponsored by Representative Ken DeGraaf, would have jeopardized Colorado’s efforts to address climate change.
“The spread of climate change denialism is dangerous, we need policies rooted in scientific fact that will help create a safer, healthier Colorado for us all,” said Rep. Cathy Kipp, Chair of the House Energy and Environment Committee, D-Fort Collins. “Colorado is working hard to address our climate crisis and policies, like the one we heard in committee today, roll back our legislative efforts. We’re committed to reaching our state’s climate goals because Coloradans are counting on us to champion policies that rein in planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, not deny it altogether.”
“Climate change is real, and it’s a threat to our way of life now and for future generations,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, Vice Chair of the House Energy and Environment Committee, D-Northglenn. “Legislation, like the one presented in committee today, is rooted in climate change denialism and would have dramatically pushed back our state’s goals, running out the clock on the time we have left to act. Colorado Democrats are on a path forward to addressing climate change, not rolling back regulations for scientifically-proven air pollutants, including carbon dioxide from the excessive burning of fossil fuels.”
HB24-1246 would roll back Colorado’s climate goals of a 80-percent reduction in carbon dioxide emission in the utility sector by 2030 and 100 percent by 2040, and consequently undermine the climate-focused work championed by Democrats over the years. Specifically, this bill would have extended the climate goals to 2040 and 2060.
Additionally, HB24-1246, as introduced, would have prohibited the classification of carbon dioxide as an air pollutant and eliminated its regulation by state agencies. Carbon dioxide emissions caused by burning fossil fuels are a driving contributor to air pollution and climate change.
Over the years, Colorado Democrats have stepped up to push forward climate-friendly laws to help clean up our air and increase protections for disproportionately impacted communities, encourage the adoption of electric vehicles and public transit options, streamline energy-efficient options for homeowners, and support businesses transitioning toward more eco-friendly heating and cooling options.