WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act—legislation cosponsored by Arizona Senators Kyrsten Sinema and Mark Kelly that increases economic opportunities for Arizona farmers while creating a cleaner environment.
“I am proud the Senate came together in a bipartisan fashion to pass our legislation increasing economic opportunities for Arizona farmers and ranchers while helping create clearer air and a cleaner environment,” said Sinema.
“Rising temperatures and increased drought are a threat to Arizona, but it’s also an opportunity for our state to lead in innovation that will combat climate change, conserve water and create jobs. This bipartisan legislation will create opportunities for Arizona’s farmers, ranchers, and landowners leading the way in sustainable practices,” said Kelly.
“Arizona Farm Bureau thanks Senators Sinema and Kelly for co-sponsoring the Growing Climate Solutions Act. This bipartisan bill emphasizes what we already know: farmers and ranchers play a critical role in wise environmental stewardship. We commend Senator Sinema and Senator Kelly for listening to the concerns of Arizona’s farmers and ranchers and working to support this science-based, voluntary, and market-driven program,” said Stefanie Smallhouse, President of the Arizona Farm Bureau.
The Sinema and Kelly backed Growing Climate Solutions Act establishes programs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and helps break down barriers for farmers, ranchers, and foresters interested in participating in voluntary environmental credit markets so they can be rewarded for climate-smart practices.
The Senators’ bipartisan bill is cosponsored by 54 Senators from both parties and is supported by over 70 environmental and business groups, including the Arizona and American Farm Bureaus; the American Forest Foundation; Environmental Defense Fund; National Audubon Society; National Cotton Council; Sustainable Food Policy Alliance; the Nature Conservancy; the US Chamber of Commerce; and the United Cattlemen’s Association.
