A Changing Republican Direction

Three efforts show a recent change in Republican dogma in Congress.  In late 2015 efforts were started by Republicans in both the House and the Senate.  House Resolution 424, co-sponsored by 13 Republicans, was proposed to look at solutions to possible negative effects of climate change (Sep 2015), and the Senate Energy and Environment Working Group, comprised of four Republican senators formed to discuss the issue and potential legislation (Oct, 2015).  In February, 2016, the Climate Solutions Caucus, was formed by two Florida Representatives – one Republican and one Democrat.

House Resolution 424 (Gibson Resolution)

Introduced in House, 9/17/2015

 Resolved, That the House of Representatives commits to working constructively, using our tradition of American ingenuity, innovation, and exceptionalism, to create and support economically viable, and broadly supported private and public solutions to study and address the causes and effects of measured changes to our global and regional climates, including mitigation efforts and efforts to balance human activities that have been found to have an impact.

Sponsor:  Rep. Chris Gibson (NY-19)
Cosponsors:

  • Rep. Ryan Costello (PA-06)
  • Rep. Carlos Curbello (FL-26)
  • Rep. Bob Dold (IL-10)
  • Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-8)
  • Rep. Richard Hanna (NY-22)
  • Rep. Patrick Meehan (PA-7)
  • Rep. David Reichert (WA-7)
  • Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (FL-27)
  • Rep. Elise Stefanik (NY-21)
  • Rep. Frank LoBiondo (NJ-2)

Senate Energy and Environment Working Group

Announced Oct 29, 2015

Republican Group that will focus on ways we can protect our environment and climate while also bolstering clean energy innovation that helps drive job creation. The group will meet periodically to discuss general energy and environmental issues and exchange ideas about potential legislation.

Senators initially participating:

  • Kelly Ayotte (R-NH)
  • Mark Kirk (R-IL)
  • Lindsey Graham (R-SC)
  • Lamar Alexander (R-TN)

Climate Solutions Caucus

Announced Feb 9, 2016

Bipartisan task force on climate change co-chaired by Congressman Ted Deutch (D-FL) and Congressman Carlos Curbelo (R-FL).  The caucus will hold events aimed at educating members on the threats that climate change poses to our economy, security, environment, and infrastructure and explore bipartisan, economically-viable solutions to these challenges.