Hartford, CT—In response to overwhelming support for climate action across the state, the Connecticut State Senate took action to reduce greenhouse gases at the source by passing House Bill 5004 in a bipartisan vote of 26-10.
This comes on the heels of the House’s passage of Senate Bill 9 last week, which will increase the state’s resilience to the impacts of climate change. Together, these two bills represent an important step towards protecting Connecticut’s families and businesses from the effects of climate change.
HB 5004 will help improve air quality and protect the health and well-being of our communities by:
- Updating the Global Warming Solutions Act with a net-zero-by-2050 target.
- Supporting the economy through workforce development and local sustainable purchasing
- Leveraging nature-based solutions to protect our shoreline communities and sequester carbon.
At the time of passage, the bill had 68 co-sponsors, representing the widespread acknowledgement of our need to act on climate.
Members of the Connecticut Coalition for Climate Action applauded the Senate’s passage and urged the Governor to sign the bill into law:
“HB 5004 is an important step that is essential for planning how Connecticut will get back on track toward meeting our greenhouse gas reduction requirements and reclaiming our role as a climate leader in the region,” said Julianna McVeigh, Climate and Resilience Campaign Manager at Save the Sound. “We appreciate the legislature’s bi-partisan support for this bill, and particularly want to thank Environment co-chairs Representative Parker and Senator Lopes for their leadership, along with Senator Hwang for recognizing that, coupled with Senate Bill 9, this bill is an integral component of comprehensive climate legislation that will make Connecticut a safer, healthier place to live.”
“After two years without action on climate in the Connecticut legislature, the passage of House Bill 5004 and Senate Bill 9 by both the House and the Senate marks the beginning of a new commitment to address the causes of climate change and its costly impacts on people in our state,” said Samantha Dynowski, State Director of Sierra Club’s Connecticut Chapter.
“Passing this climate bill is a step forward, but it is only the beginning,” said Conservation Law Foundation Vice President for Connecticut Shannon Laun. “Passing a bill alone will not protect our communities or secure a livable environment for future generations. Connecticut’s real progress will be measured by action. Our leaders must move swiftly to advance clean energy, invest in transformative technologies that slash our bills and cut pollution, and turn ambition into impact.”
“In 2024, CT saw unprecedented flooding and wildfires, which caused billions in damage and cost the lives of at least three people. More than ever, extreme weather threatens our wellbeing, our resources, and our health. HB 5004 is a critical step in addressing climate change and includes important provisions to increase energy efficiency and clean energy for the residents of CT. The Interreligious Eco-Justice Network looks forward to helping houses of worship across our state bring these programs to their communities, helping people reduce their energy costs, improve their quality of life, and protect the planet.“ Terri Eickel, Executive Director, Interreligious Eco Justice Network.
“Passing HB 5004 and SB 9 is welcome progress as we work to address climate change and put Connecticut back on track to meet our climate goals. Rep. John Michael Parker has been a steadfast champion of this effort in his first year as Environment Committee Chair. This renewed focus on climate by our state leaders is essential in the face of federal attacks on our environment by the Trump administration,” said Lori Brown, Executive Director of Connecticut League of Conservation Voters.
“We can’t forget that the changing climate is the greatest existential challenge we face despite the many immediate concerns that keep us so busy. This bill helps get Connecticut back on track for the larger work that still lies ahead,” said Nathan Frohling, Director of External Affairs for The Nature Conservancy in CT.
“This modest bill is an essential part of Connecticut’s transition to clean energy. Importantly, it sets goals for greenhouse gas reduction and sets in motion a range of actions to lower our energy costs and improve health outcomes.” Mark Scully, President, People’s Action for Clean Energy.
“HB 5004 is an important update to the state’s climate legislation. Passage of the bill represents an acceptance of the challenge to enact substantive policies to grow clean energy and mitigate climate change,” said Environment Connecticut Director Chris Phelps.
The CT Coalition for Climate Action comprises environmental advocates, health experts, labor and municipal representatives, and others advocating for climate action in Connecticut. Formed in 2023, the Coalition’s central demand is that Connecticut keep its promise to cut climate pollution and protect our future. Members of the coalition’s steering committee are Save the Sound, American College of Physicians – CT Chapter, ConnPIRG, Conservation Law Foundation, CT Health Professionals for Climate Action, CT League of Conservation Voters, Environment Connecticut, Interreligious Eco-Justice Network, Mitchell Environmental Health Associates, People’s Action for Clean Energy, Sierra Club CT, and the Nature Conservancy in CT. More information at www.climateactionct.org
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