Cohen Receives Perfect Score on LCV Special Edition Scorecard on Continuing Resolution

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) was recognized by the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) for having a perfect voting record on the group’s Continuing Resolution Special Edition National Environmental Scorecard. Congressman Cohen was the only member of the Tennessee delegation to receive a perfect score.

“It is an honor to be recognized by the League of Conservation Voters for my work to protect the air we breathe and the water we drink,” said Congressman Cohen. “We must combat the pollution that destroys our lungs and ruins our planet. Many great benefits could come from our efforts to maintain clean water and air. They will enable us to create alternative sources of energy that will reduce our dependence on foreign oil, lower energy costs for American families and small businesses, and establish a clean energy economy that will help create green jobs across the country.”

The Special Edition Scorecard provided scores on environmental, public health, and energy votes taken on amendments to the House-passed spending bill. The Scorecard featured an extensive scoring of the GOP-Congressional led assaults on clean air, clean water, wildlife and wild places included in the Continuing Resolution. This is the first time LCV has released a special edition Scorecard on a single piece of legislation and its corresponding amendments.

The Special Edition Scorecard includes 25 votes -- 20 of which were amendments to make the underlying bill even worse. This includes several amendments offered to block the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from protecting public health and holding polluters accountable. Other amendments would cut funding for renewable energy and energy efficiency, climate change research, lands conservation and restoration, and other important environmental programs.

For 40 years, the National Environmental Scorecard issued by LCV has been the nationally accepted yardstick used to rate members of Congress on environmental, public health and energy issues.

In the 111th Congress, Congressman Cohen authored the 10 Million Solar Roofs and 10 Million Gallons of Solar Water Heating Act. The measure would provide valuable cash rebates for the creation of 10 million small power plants located on the roofs of American homes and businesses throughout the country. The legislation would also create an estimated 1.35 million direct and indirect jobs, lower energy costs, strengthen the economy, and put America on the path to energy independence.