ATLANTA – State Representative Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta) recently introduced House Resolution 70, which seeks to set Georgia on a path to an economy powered by 100 percent clean and renewable energy by 2050.
“I’m proud to bring this critical clean energy vision to the Georgia General Assembly,” said Rep. Schofield. “Georgia does not have time to waste; we need to reduce our climate footprint, clean up our communities and put our people to work with good green jobs today. An equitable, clean energy transition gives our children and communities a chance at a future. We must commit to 100 percent clean energy. To date, Atlanta, Athens-Clarke County, Savannah, Clarkston and Augusta have made 100 percent clean and renewable energy commitments. House Resolution 70 would be the first call for statewide action on a 100 percent clean energy future. The 2050 date is in line with the deadline that the world’s top climate scientists have given to keep global warming below 1.5 Celsius and avert the worst impacts of climate change.”
Under House Resolution 70, the House would support the transition from fossil fuels to 100 percent safe, clean, renewable and equitable energy for all energy sector economies in the state of Georgia by December 31, 2050. If HR 70 is adopted, the House would promote job creation, economic growth and efforts to protect the earth from climate issues for current and future generations. This resolution also highlights scientific research regarding climate change and its impact on people living in Georgia, such as high energy bills and other “energy burdens.”
Additionally, several organizations and stakeholders have endorsed HR 70, including Environment Georgia and the Partnership for Southern Equity’s Just Energy program.
“From increased flooding to record high temperatures and more intense storms, Georgians across the political spectrum are already experiencing the terrifying impacts of global warming,” said Jennette Gayer, director of Environment Georgia. “We applaud Rep. Schofield for setting for this visionary resolution in motion and starting a statewide push for 100 percent clean and renewable energy.”
“COVID-19 has hit Georgians, especially Black people and people of color, tremendously hard,” said Chandra Farley, director of Just Energy. “A commitment to a just transition to 100 percent clean and renewable energy could be an economic and environmental boon for suffering communities all over the state.”
For more information on House Resolution 70, please click here.
Representative Kim Schofield represents the citizens of District 60, which includes portions of Clayton and Fulton counties. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2017 and currently serves on the Health & Human Services, Interstate Cooperation, Information and Audits and Small Business Development committees.
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