Newman’s first bill calls for green energy investments and a carbon fee

U.S. Rep. Marie Newman introduced her first bill as a member of Congress this week, marking her first 100 days in the House of Representatives.

Her bill, the America’s Clean Future Fund Act, aims to combat climate change and create new jobs by investing in clean energy projects, according to a news release.

The legislation calls for establishing a federal agency to provide grants and loan guarantees to support clean energy projects. It also includes measures to provide grants to areas which have historically relied on carbon-intensive industries. It would also establish a fee on carbon starting in 2023.

“Each and every day, we continue to see the effect of climate change on our communities – massive wildfires out west, strengthening hurricanes in the Atlantic, widespread inland flooding, and soaring record temperatures across the country,” Newman, D-La Grange, said in the release. “If we want to ensure our children and grandchildren inherit a habitable planet, we need to start investing in our future.”

Newman argued her bill “serves as one comprehensive plan to achieving critical reductions in greenhouse gas emissions” while also providing a “fair transition” for affected workers.

Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Illinois, is the sponsor of the bill in the upper chamber.

The progressive congresswoman, who was elected last year to represent the 3rd Congressional District, listed climate change and investing in green technologies and transportation innovation as among her top concerns on the campaign trail.