TRENTON – Senator Barbara Buono, the prime sponsor of S-2114, the “Global Warming Response Act,” made the following statement today on the eve of the Live Earth concert at Giants Stadium as Governor Jon Corzine signed the bill into law:
“Global warming is the most urgent environmental issue in our lifetime. Failing to consider the long-term impacts of our actions today will result in unbreathable air and a floundering economy.
“But if we get serious about living with the future in mind, we have the possibility of passing onto our children a New Jersey that is secure and offers a high quality of life.
“In order to avert the worst effects of global warming the scientific community says we need to cut global warming emissions to 20% below current levels by 2020 and 80% by 2050.
“This law sets up a comprehensive solution to global warming by mandating a reduction of greenhouse gases to 1990 levels by 2020 and 80% by 2050. It will require the DEP, BPU and other agencies to make specific recommendations to the Legislature to achieve those reductions.
“The new law represents a crucial step forward toward fighting global climate change. In the face of a stunning lack of leadership at the national level, states cannot stand idly by.
“The Global Warming Response Act will show that it is not only possible to significantly reduce emissions but that it provides invaluable benefits both environmentally and economically.”
Senator Buono, D-Middlesex, represents the 18th Legislative District.