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What you can do right now
Background: SGA is currently engaged in two main efforts on Capitol Hill: (1) Complete Streets,(2) Connecting smart growth to climate legislation. Climate: In the House of Representatives, Congressman Markey (D-MA) introduced a climate bill dubbed iCAP (Investing in Climate Action and Protection Act), which would set a national cap on greenhouse gas emissions. Out of the 20 percent of the bill that goes toward energy efficiency, one eighth goes towards strategies to reduce vehicle miles traveled. SGA will be working with House leaders in the future to ensure that the main climate vehicle in the House includes policies and funding for better transportation options. Read more about the iCAP bill on Grist Unfortunately, the Senate's major piece of climate legislation, the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act, has been pulled from consideration after failing to win the 60 votes needed to close debate and move forward. However, the good news is that since its introduction last year, important provisions were added to provide funding for state, regional, and local governments and transit agencies to provide Americans with alternatives to driving while also reducing carbon emissions. Smart Growth America will continue to advocate for future Senate climate legislation to include transportation alternatives. Thanks to all those who contacted their Senators on this important legislation. Complete Streets:The Safe and Complete Streets Act of 2008 (H.R. 5951) was introduced by Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-5) on May 1st in the House of Representatives. The bill is co-sponsored by Representatives Earl Blumenauer (OR-3), Steve Cohen (TN-9), Barbara Lee (CA-9) and Lynn Woolsey (CA-6). Tell your Representative to sign on today. The Complete Streets Act of 2008 (S. 2686) was introduced in the Senate by Senators Tom Harkin (IA) and Tom Carper (DE). It is co-sponsored by Senators Norm Coleman (MN), Richard Durbin (IL) and Bernard Sanders (VT). Tell your Senators to sign on today. |
 Smart Growth America is always working on a handful of federal policies. Here, you can download the core talking points, sample letters, and fact sheets for current policy work to help equip you for calling, writing, and meeting your representation in Congress. Get your friends and colleagues involved! 
Click the buttons below to find your members of Congress. 
• Talking points (pdf) 
• Energy Security and Climate Change fact sheet (pdf) • And visit the SGA Climate and Energy page to learn more about smart growth, climate, and energy 
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Click to tell your Representative