NEW YORK, NY – Jewish Americans cheered the $370 billion investment in climate solutions like clean energy, transportation, energy efficiency, and environmental justice, included in the Inflation Reduction Act, the first meaningful federal climate legislation in U.S. history.
Though far from perfect, the bill, when signed into law by President Biden, will put the United States on the path to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than 40% by the decade’s end – what scientists tell us we need to avert the most harmful impacts of the climate crisis.
Dayenu Founder and CEO Rabbi Jennie Rosenn reflected on this historic vote:
“It is fitting to vote on the Inflation Reduction Act today, Tu B’Av, the fifteenth day of the month the Jewish month of Av, known as the Jewish Day of Love. Confronting the climate crisis is an act of fierce love, for our communities and for generations to come.
Just as any loving relationship requires constant tending, so too does our commitment to ending the era of fossil fuels and turning the tide of the climate crisis. Today we show some love for the accomplishments of thousands of Dayenu activists, Jewish climate leaders, partners, allies, and the broader movement led by frontline communities and young people. And in the weeks and months ahead, we will use All Our Might to end fossil fuel expansion and continue to build the just and livable future we so desperately need.”