For Immediate Release: August 12, 2022
Contact: Matt Spence 202-728-6014
IBEW Statement in Support of the Inflation Reduction Act
Lonnie Stephenson, President of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), issued the following statement in support of the Inflation Reduction Act:
“Today, we celebrate the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act by the House of Representatives. It is an all-around victory — for the climate, the economy and good American union jobs. Paired with the CHIPs Act signed days ago and 2021’s massive infrastructure bill, IBEW members and working families will be reaping the rewards for many years to come.
“The legislation includes strong labor protections as part of more than $300 billion in federal tax credits for clean energy infrastructure projects, guaranteeing these carbon-cutting renewable energy developments will create middle-class, family-sustaining career opportunities in every community in the United States.
“It makes historic investments in domestic energy production to fight climate change while bolstering domestic manufacturing and energy independence by weaning the United States from critical imported components.
“Frontline and historically underrepresented communities will not be left behind as the Inflation Reduction Act targets new and expanding opportunities in previously overlooked corners of the country. Such projects include nuclear, wind, solar, EV charging stations, hydrogen, carbon capture, battery storage and installing energy-efficient technology in commercial buildings.
“These investments will create millions of good union jobs thanks to Davis-Bacon prevailing wage requirements and Buy America incentives. This largest-ever climate package will also help reduce the federal deficit without raising taxes on ordinary Americans.
“We anticipate the signature of President Biden and look forward to the law’s pursuit of a carbon-free, energy-independent future built with union jobs that expand the middle class and American prosperity.”
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The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) represents approximately 775,000 members and retirees who work in a wide variety of fields, including construction, utilities, manufacturing, telecommunications, broadcasting, railroads and government.