This November marks the 25th anniversary of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990. The 1990 amendments ushered in a new era of protections from car pollution, toxic air pollutants, urban smog and acid rain. The amendments also established a national program to phase out and prevent release of chemicals that harm the stratospheric ozone layer. Not only were these changes sweeping, but they were also bipartisan. A Democratic-majority Congress passed the amendments, which were signed by Republican President George H.W. Bush.
These Clean Air Act improvements sought to protect public health by reducing pollution, but they also created new incentives for businesses to develop and market innovative technologies related to pollution controls and cleaner energy production. This has prompted companies to invest in domestic research and development, or R&D, and manufacturing jobs in the United States.
As a result, the Clean Air Act amendments have helped the American economy while improving air quality and making communities healthier. This event will examine the ways in which strong pollution policies promote American ingenuity, entrepreneurship, and a robust economy.
Welcoming remarks and moderator:
Greg Dotson, Vice President for Energy Policy, Center for American Progress
Keynote remarks:
Former Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA)
Panelists:
Brian Coleman, President and Chief Operating Officer, Hudson Technologies
Yvonne McIntyre, Vice President of Federal Legislative Affairs, Calpine Corporation
Timothy Regan, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Government Affairs, Corning Inc.