86R17377 SME-F
By: Hinojosa H.R. No. 776
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The Department of Health has issued a report
outlining the increased risk of extreme weather events, including
wildfires, water scarcity, and flooding, and these impacts of
climate change will affect Texas citizens and impair productivity
in key economic areas; and
WHEREAS, Texas' total annual greenhouse gas emissions are the
largest of any state, and it has the highest amount of industrial
and transportation-related emissions in the country; in 1999, Texas
became the first state in the nation to adopt an Energy Efficiency
Resource Standard, but has since fallen significantly behind in
energy efficiency; while 40 states saw increases in energy
efficiency compared to total energy consumption between 2008 and
2016, Texas was among those that experienced decreases; and
WHEREAS, The state has more than 233,000 people working in
advanced energy across all 254 of its counties, representing more
workers than those in mining and oil and gas, and double those
working at auto dealerships; Texas has great potential to maximize
its advanced energy job market in order to increase energy
efficiency and the use of its renewable energy sources; and
WHEREAS, Efforts to address climate change and its effects
would strengthen our economy and its global competitiveness, as
well as reduce pollutants that adversely impact the health of many
state residents; a leader in technological innovation and
problem-solving ingenuity, Texas recognizes the inherent worth of
our natural resources and has a strong tradition of supporting
stewardship of the environment; and
WHEREAS, Preservation of the state's role as a leader in
fiscal responsibility depends on the prudent management of our
land, air, and water, and the conservation and maintenance of
ecosystems will benefit future generations; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas
Legislature hereby urge the members of the Texas delegation of the
United States Congress to move forward with bipartisan climate
action policy initiatives and encourage individuals, corporations,
and state agencies to reduce emissions and support the growth of
technologies and services that will enlarge and diversify our
economy in energy-efficient, cost-effective ways; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That the chief clerk forward official copies of
this resolution to the Texas delegation of the United States
Congress as an expression of sentiment by the Texas House of
Representatives.