Lawmakers approve bill that could unlock low-cost energy for millions of households: 'This is a critical moment for us'
As the world moves toward a cleaner economy, there are growing opportunities for investors to back companies that focus on renewable energy, clean tech, and sustainable practices. These industries are proving to be financially smart investments, often outperforming traditional fossil fuel stocks in long-term growth.
Pennsylvania is positioning itself to capitalize on this global shift, supporting sectors like semiconductor manufacturing, hydrogen hubs, and sustainable aviation fuel. The bill now heads to the state Senate for further approval.
State Rep. John Inglis, a key sponsor of the bill, highlighted the importance of acting now.
"With costs rising due to inflation, tariffs and a confluence of other factors, we're seeing companies across the country shy away from making long-term investments," he said, per CPBJ. "This is a critical moment for us to assure businesses and energy producers that, despite looming economic uncertainty, Pennsylvania is leading the nation toward a cleaner and stronger energy future."
Beyond the environmental benefits, the bill's people-first approach promises substantial economic rewards. By expanding tax credits and attracting investment in clean energy, the legislation could create thousands of new jobs and lower energy costs for consumers. This approach not only strengthens Pennsylvania's economy but also provides resilience in an unpredictable global market.
The long-term momentum of the clean economy remains strong. While there have been ups and downs, the shift to clean energy makes logical economic sense. Sustainability-focused businesses are not just good for the planet — they're proving to be profitable, offering investors both growth potential and alignment with the values that matter most.
For individuals looking to make informed financial decisions that align with their values, GreenPortfolio offers a free resource to simplify climate-forward investing.
The company connects users with remote financial advisers who help navigate investment options that support sustainability. It also provides insights into building portfolios, choosing green banks, and understanding climate-conscious credit cards, making it easier than ever to invest with impact.
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Democratic lawmakers in Texas fled the state to block the Republican-led legislature from approving a new map that would gerrymander congressional districts to favor of the GOP. The Democrats maneuver worked, since it prevented the legislature from have a quorum necessary to approve the measure. A second special session is expected to begin Friday. The absent lawmakers are facing threats of fines, civil arrest warrants and calls for being removed from office; Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has vowed to call repeated special sessions until the map is approved. In California, the gerrymandering plan taking shape behind closed doors would increase the Democratic Party's dominance in the state by making five House districts more favorable to Democrats, according to a draft map reviewed by The Times. Those changes could reduce by more than half the number of Republicans representing California in Congress. The state has the nation's largest congressional delegation, with 52 members. Nine are Republicans. A Northern California district represented by Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) could shift to the south, shedding rural, conservative voters near the Oregon border and picking up left-leaning cities in Sonoma County. Sacramento-area Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-Rocklin) would see his district shift toward the bluer center of the city. The plan would also add more Democrats to the Central Valley district represented by Rep. David Valadao (R-Hanford), who has been a perennial target for Democrats. Southern California would see some of the biggest changes: Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Bonsall) would see his safely Republican district in San Diego County become more purple through the addition of liberal Palm Springs. And Reps. Young Kim (R-Anaheim Hills) and Ken Calvert (R-Corona) would be drawn into the same district, which could force the lawmakers to run against each other. The plan would also shore up Democrats who represent swing districts, such as Reps. Dave Min (D-Irvine) and Derek Tran (D-Orange). It could also add another district in southeast Los Angeles County, in the area that elected the first Latino member of Congress from California in modern history. A similar seat was eliminated during the 2021 redistricting. Times staff writer Taryn Luna contributed to this report from Sacramento.
