Rep. Matt Cartwright Introduces SAFE Act in House of Representatives

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 11, 2014

Contact: Haley McKey, hmckey@defenders.org, 202-772-0247

Rep. Matt Cartwright Introduces SAFE Act in House of Representatives

Bill would provide a guide to climate adaptation for United States ecosystems

Washington ­­–– Rep. Matt Cartwright (PA-17) introduced the SAFE Act (H.R. 5065) in the House of Representatives today. The bill, a Senate version of which was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (RI) and former senator Max Baucus (MT), was crafted to help guide climate adaptation strategies for our nation’s natural resources and wildlife habitat in the face of global warming. Combating invasive species, restoring coastal wetlands and watersheds and controlling wildfires are just a few of the resilience-building strategies included in the SAFE Act.

The following is a statement from Former Defenders of Wildlife President and CEO Jamie Rappaport Clark:

“Representative Cartwright is tackling the impacts of global warming head-on. The SAFE Act, introduced by Rep. Cartwright today, recognizes the incredible benefits of wildlife habitat and gives us a roadmap for ensuring the benefits of our natural habitats are preserved for future generations.

“Coastal wetlands act as a buffer when severe storms and floods strike, saving millions in damages. Resilient forests help protect us from wildfires. Watersheds provide us with clean drinking water. But we have to manage these habitats so they can adapt to and withstand the effects of global warming.

“Rep. Cartwright’s introduction of the SAFE Act is an important step forward in the effort to address climate change in the United States. It’s an investment plan for our wildlife and natural resources, our economy and our communities. Congress should follow Rep. Cartwright’s lead and continue along the path to a brighter future for our nation.”

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Defenders of Wildlife is dedicated to the protection of all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With more than 1.1 million members and activists, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife heritage for generations to come. For more information, visit www.defenders.org and follow us on Twitter @defendersnews.