August 9, 2021

In response to the Concurrent Budget Resolution introduced today in the United States Senate, American Forests Senior Vice President of Policy Leslie Jones issued the following statement:

“Today, the same day that the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warned that we are on the precipice of a devastating climate future, the budget resolution released in the U.S. Senate represents the most significant proposed investment to address the climate crisis in history.

“To change our course and our future, we must invest in a diverse array of programs and policies, all with natural climate solutions at the forefront. This resolution would boost America’s climate smart conservation, drought and forestry programs. The investments made will significantly help reduce carbon emissions, prevent wildfires, expand rural clean energy projects and enable our best minds to get to work on natural climate solutions research. Millions of people would also be connected to meaningful work through the launch of a 21st century conservation climate corps and other job-creating projects.

“We appreciate the commitment that Senate leaders and the Biden-Harris Administration have made to climate equity, and applaud them for acknowledging the vital role that trees play in delivering climate benefits to our cities, towns and rural communities.

“Today’s budget resolution outlines the path forward. American Forests looks forward to continued partnership with our congressional leaders and to moving along this path toward mitigation and adaptation together, without delay.”