Washington D.C. — Today, despite the fact that Senator Manchin’s “permitting reform” provision has drawn opposition from both parties and frontline communities, President Biden released a statement in support of the proposal, claiming it would cut energy bills. Yet Manchin’s provision would build out new fossil fuel infrastructure and only reinforce U.S. energy ties with Big Oil.
Thanu Yakupitiyage, 350.org’s U.S. Communications-Digital Director, responded:
“President Biden claims to prioritize climate justice. And yet today’s statement reveals that he is quick to throw frontline communities under the bus and support Manchin’s Dirty Deal. Frontline communities and environmental advocates have been crystal clear: Manchin’s permitting proposal will fast-track fossil fuel projects and exacerbate the harm already being felt disproportionately across the US and globally. We need to phase out fossil fuel projects swiftly and completely. That’s the only way to move forward a just transition to an equitable, renewable energy future. We call on Biden to move forward with integrity. We need to move forward, not back.”
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Press Contact: Melanie Smith, [email protected]