WASHINGTON (April 28, 2021)—President Joe Biden will address his first joint session of Congress today at 9:00pm EDT. The speech is expected to highlight accomplishments of the administration’s first 100 days and call on Congress to take up the President’s recent proposals, including the American Jobs Plan.
 
The speech comes one week after President Biden hosted the Leaders Climate Summit and set a bold target to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions 50-52% by 2030 (from 2005 levels).
 

Following is a statement from Manish Bapna, Interim President and CEO, WRI:
 

“Tonight, President Biden will explain to the American people why ambitious climate action will put the country on a stronger and more equitable path. The next step will be for Congress to pass the American Jobs Plan and unlock the funding needed to turn this vision into reality. The window of opportunity is short, but bold climate action can unleash significant benefits.
 
“Last week, President Biden put down a strong marker with a new U.S. greenhouse gas emissions target. His climate strategy centers on creating good jobs and reinvigorating the economy. This is exactly the approach he will need to build support for climate action across the country. The good news is that a clean energy economy is already a winner, as 4 out of 5 rural counties have more clean energy jobs than fossil fuel jobs.
 
“Passing a major infrastructure package through Congress is a huge opportunity to create high-quality jobs and ensure a just transition for people that too often have been left behind, including communities impacted by the decline of the fossil fuel industry. Part of the Build Back Better plan is to ensure that a clean energy future lifts up all Americans and addresses long-standing justice issues. This infrastructure plan embodies President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative that sets a target to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of relevant federal investments to disadvantaged communities.
 
“Investing in renewable energy, electric vehicles and energy efficiency can help provide cleaner air and healthier communities. Congress can have a big impact by investing in electric school buses that would reduce emissions and bring healthier air for millions of school children. Investments in electric vehicles and cleaner energy can also drive innovation and make the U.S. more competitive in emerging global markets.
 
“President Biden has shown that he’s eager and willing to lead on the climate crisis. The big question is whether Congress will rise to the occasion and pass an infrastructure package that puts Americans to work and points them to a stronger, safer future."