WASHINGTON (June 20, 2018) — The Climate Leadership Council announced that it would expand its coalition, establishing an advocacy organization called Americans for Carbon Dividends to lobby for a carbon dividends plan in the United States. The group is supported by a range of industry leaders and will be co-chaired by Trent Lott, former Senator for Mississippi and John Breaux, former Senator from Louisiana.

Following is a statement from Andrew Steer, president & CEO, World Resources Institute:

“The announcement that a growing number of prominent economists and major corporations are joining a campaign in support of a carbon dividend is further evidence that smart leaders increasingly recognize that a price on carbon is good for the economy as well as the planet. The creation of an advocacy group with bi-partisan leadership is an exciting new development, suggesting that the political tide may be turning in the battle against carbon pollution in the United States.

"At a time when climate policies have been irrationally politicized, we need to be creative in bringing different views to the table. The Climate Leadership Council’s proposal offers an encouraging way forward.

"It is, of course, vital that existing regulations to reduce carbon emissions remain firmly in place until a new carbon dividend proves it will deliver more emission reductions than when regulations are rolled back. The CLC proposal is consistent with this approach and should help advance this important topic.”