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Problem Solvers Endorse Bill to Highlight Responsible U.S. Energy Standards and Combat Unfair Tariffs

August 27, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus announced its endorsement of the Providing Reliable, Objective, Verifiable Emissions Intensity and Transparency (PROVE IT) Act, legislation that would commission an in-depth report to showcase America’s leadership in responsible energy production and manufacturing on the global stage.

As foreign countries begin to impose emissions-based tariffs on American production, it is critical we compile verifiable data to back up our track record of responsible energy production and manufacturing. The PROVE IT Act will direct the U.S. Department of Energy to conduct a comprehensive study and submit a report on the average product emissions intensity of certain goods produced in the United States compared to those from other countries. The findings will contend with poorly calculated foreign emission tariffs and expose how foreign governments gain an advantage in international trade by permitting or engaging in the use of forced labor, child labor, or unacceptable work conditions. 

The bipartisan, bicameral legislation was introduced by Representatives John Curtis (UT-03) and Scott Peters (CA-50) and has 34 additional cosponsors, 17 of whom are Members of the Problem Solvers Caucus. 

“I am pleased to have the support of the Problem Solvers Caucus. We should embrace the fact that American industries produce cleaner and with better standards than anywhere else in the world,” said Congressman John Curtis (UT-03). “This bill is not just about proving our energy dominance; it's about leveling the playing field in international competition. Russia and China are on an unapologetic trajectory to energy dominance, using none of the innovative technologies or regulations that make our energy cleaner in the United States. This legislation will help American businesses compete globally, strengthen our trade relationships, and provide our allies with a reliable energy partner.”

"To address climate change, we must have a global race to the top, so that all nations have strong incentives to reduce their emissions," said Congressman Scott Peters (CA-50). "This means holding other nations, like China, accountable for emissions-intensive practices, while using data to show the benefits of America’s high environmental standards. I am excited to be leading this effort with Representative Curtis, which shows that even in an age of increasing partisanship, we can still work together to advance strong and common-sense environmental and energy policies."

“I am proud that the Problem Solvers Caucus has endorsed the bipartisan, bicameral PROVE IT Act,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01). "Climate continues to be a pressing economic security issue, and the stakes demand action to keep American industry at the forefront of global competition. This legislation is a bipartisan, bicameral solution that demonstrates how progress is possible when we reach across the aisle and work together to deliver results that benefit all our constituents and communities."

“I’m glad the Problem Solvers Caucus came together to endorse the PROVE IT Act, a critical piece of legislation that will secure our manufacturing leadership and produce valuable environmental data,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05).

 “Our nation’s climate experts have found that American-made products are among the cleanest and more carbon-efficient in the world. I am happy to see the Problem Solvers Caucus putting its weight behind our bipartisan push to conduct the first-ever government effort to document these advantages. As a proud co-lead of the PROVE It Act, I look forward to working with my fellow Problem Solvers to promote cleaner manufacturing and production across our economy and around the world,” said Congressman Salud Carbajal (CA-24). 

The full text of the bill can be found here.

The Problem Solvers Caucus, which is Co-Chaired by Congressmen Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), has sixty-two Members evenly split between Republicans and Democrats. 

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