We have a solemn obligation to protect our environment for current and future generations. As the dangerous consequences of global climate change become increasingly evident and more dangerous, we must meet this crisis with the urgency it demands. I am committed to comprehensive change, and I will continue supporting legislation that invests in new science and technology innovation, safeguards the quality of the air we breathe and the water we drink, strengthens environmental protections, and reforms our systems of energy production.

I also have grave concerns about mountaintop removal mining, which has damaging impacts on public health, our waterways, and natural areas -- especially in Kentucky. Mountaintop removal mining involves the removal of the top of a mountain to recover coal. Excess dirt and rock from the mountaintop, as well as blasting materials, are dumped into valleys below, contaminating water supplies and destroying streams and wildlife habitat. While regulations have been implemented to address the environmental impacts of mountaintop removal mining, they fall far short of protecting the environment and the people who live in mining communities. The federal government can and must do more. That is why I introduced legislation in Congress to stop mountaintop removal unless the practice can be proven to have no health consequences on the surrounding communities.