Environment
Western New Yorkers know too well the painful costs of pollution and other forms of environmental degradation and neglect. Over 30 years ago the Buffalo River was declared biologically dead and ecologically destroyed, and only through a persistent restoration effort was it remediated and shows vastly improved water quality. Brian believes that we must learn from this history to prevent the recurrence of environmental disasters like Love Canal and Tonawanda Coke in our district. His work in Washington, D.C. focuses on the conservation and care for the many precious natural resources here in Western New York. From the Great Lakes, to our waterways, to our parks and natural public spaces, Brian is fighting to ensure the federal policies enacted in Congress help to support a healthy environment and protect those most vulnerable to pollution and exposure to hazardous substances. To achieve these goals of preservation, Brian has been a strong supporter of federal funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, the Land and Water Conservation Fund, and the Water Resources Development Act.
More on Environment
Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) introduced the Green Energy Investment Zone Act (H.R. 3834) a bill that would enhance renewable energy tax credits for economically distressed cities.
Today, Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) sent a letter asking the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) to reject the proposal by New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) to increase rates for electricity and gas delivery by 18.6% and 17.4% respectively.
Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) voted to approve HR 3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act, a bipartisan bill from the Science and Technology Committee, which authorizes the establishment of an Energy Department vehicle technology research and development program.
“These vital research programs are the gateway towards revitalizing the strong manufacturing industry of Western New York,” said Congressman Higgins. “In turn, improving fuel efficiency and vehicle technology are at the forefront of strengthening our country’s economic standing and energy security.”
Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) announced that the U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Honeywell International Inc. a grant totaling $27.3 million. Honeywell International’s facilities in Buffalo, NY and Metropolis, IL will utilize the federal grant for lithium ion battery development.
Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) voted with his colleagues in the House of Representatives to approve H.R. 3183, the Energy-Water Appropriations for the Fiscal Year 2010 including long term energy and water infrastructure investments in Western New York.