Energy and Environment
As a PhD scientist, I utilize my expertise to make thoughtful policy decisions on issues related to energy and the environment. We know that climate change is real and largely man-made. While some politicians claim it's a hoax, we’ve already begun to witness economic, political, and social consequences from climate change. I support sound economic policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect our environment for the next generation.
Thanks to decades of federally funded research, we have made great progress towards energy independence. The growth and development of our modern economy during the last century raised our standard of living, but has also led to new challenges and environmental threats. It is our responsibility to develop a comprehensive response to address our dependence on fossil fuels, promote sustainable energy use, and invest in new energy technologies. Research at Argonne National Laboratory in Illinois leads the way in the kind of innovation we need to make energy more efficient. These projects will help make batteries (including the ones we use in hybrid cars) more cost effective and more powerful.
I’m proud to have introduced the Better Energy Storage and Technology (BEST) Act, which was signed into law in 2020. This legislation provided funding for long-term grid-scale energy storage projects, which will be essential for incorporating clean, renewable energy onto the grid.
More on Energy and Environment
Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) introduced the American Innovation Act, a measure that would support the steady growth of federal investment in scientific and technological research.
Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) testified before the U.S. House Appropriations Committee encouraging science funding in the FY2018 budget.
Washington, DC - I am deeply troubled by early reports that our scientific community is facing threats from the new presidential administration.
The report that President Elect Trump wants to identify civil servants at the Department of Energy who work on climate change and international diplomacy is deeply disturbing. It harkens back to an era when politicians sought out individuals for partisan politics with little basis of any wrongdoing. The United States has always been at the forefront of scientific inquiry and innovation.
This reported nomination is just another example of the Republican Party's difficult relationship with science. As the only PhD scientist in Congress, I am deeply concerned at the long-term damage this decision will have on our environment. The science is very clear – climate change is real, and human activity is a major contributor. This pick threatens to undo the progress President Obama has made on climate change and protecting our natural resources.
Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) and Congressman Mark Takano (D-CA) introduced a House resolution to designate December 3rd as National 3D Printing Day. In addition, the resolution would recognize the positive economic impact of 3D printing in the United States and encourage the promotion and celebration of 3D printing technology.
Gobal climate change is the "most serious long-term problem this country will face," but until legislators begin to believe and act, the only option available is to raise public awareness and urge public pressure, U.S. Rep. Bill Foster said Saturday.
Aurora, IL - Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) hosted a panel on climate change with leading experts on environmental policy and meteorology. An estimated 400 people attended the event.
The panel featured Tom Skilling, WGN Chief Meteorologist, Doug Sisterson, Research Meteorologist at Argonne National Lab, and Mary Gade, President of Gade Environmental Group. The panel discussed the need to take action on climate change and the effects it will have locally.
Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) praised funding included in the federal budget for science and public health crises. The continuing resolution allocates money for the Long Baseline Neutrino Facility at Fermilab located in Naperville, Illinois. The funding measure also includes $1.1 billion funding for Zika, and $37 million for opioid and heroin addiction treatment.
Last week, the Republican-controlled House Committee on Science held a hearing to discuss a contentious move it made during the summer — sending out subpoenas to state attorneys general who are conducting an investigation of ExxonMobil in relation to climate change. Eight environmental groups also received subpoenas.